In this weeks “look at great free software”, we wanted to take a look at something almost everyone needs, but not a lot of people know about. Most everyone has had to at least open a PDF at some point or another. You know, they are those stupid documents you have to go to adobe and download something to view?

Given Adobe created the software that creates the vast majority of PDF’s, it is only natural that the overwhelming majority of people use their reader as well. The fact is, there is a better option out there, and it is free as well!

FOXIT reader can view or print any PDF. It’s just like Adobe’s PDF reader program, but it has one added feature that makes it worth the switch. You can actually annotate any PDF file as well, you can leave your own editorial notes for the originator, or for yourself. Why is this so cool? Say for example you’re using a PDF as an instructional manual for setting something up, but its missing something crucial. With this you can add it right in!  Another example, say you are setting up a wireless router in your house, diligently following the PDF instructions, but it comes time to save your security key. How about being able to add it right to the digital file?

On top of all this, it loads faster, not bloated, and they even make mobile versions for your phone. (that version is not free)

Anyway, if you want to check it out for yourself here is a link to download it.

Their new version has a favorite toolbar, internet search, a comments panel, and an area to allow users to summarize comments. It even allows you to view the documents restrictions.

The only thing we would avoid is installing any toolbars or changing your homepage to ask.com. Just be slow in the install.

Here is a little look at the software. As you can see it doesn’t look all that different: