As good as it is, there's more to Windows development than Visual Studio. A wealth of open and free software is also available for programmers who want to extend the development environment, write higher quality software, and increase productivity. This book offers an encyclopedic guide to more than 170 of these free programming tools for building Windows desktop and server applications, including web apps and services.

To help you choose the right tools for solving common (and uncommon) problems you face each day, Windows Developer Power Tools has a unique task-oriented organization. The book lays out problems in the same order that you and your team are likely to run across as you work on a project. Each tool listed includes a capsule summary--a mini user's guide--so you can get up to speed quickly, locate support and get a sense of how the tool can help you get your work done. Inside, you'll find:

• A guide to free tools covering 24 unique aspects of Windows and .NET software development
• Descriptions of ASP.NET and Windows Forms controls, object relational mapping, testing tools and frameworks, and build and continuous integration tools
• Many descriptions contributed by the tools' authors
• Quick pick lists at the start of each chapter to help you find and choose the right tool for your task
• An online book site to keep you up-to-date with new releases and features

Also, plenty of links point you to additional detail online if you wish to delve more deeply into features and functionality. This one-stop resource covers a wide range of open source and freeware tools to help you answer questions around planning, developing, testing, and rolling out great software. Best of all, they're free.

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