FireFox - Open Source Internet Browser.
Thunderbird - Open Source e-mail program.
Trillian IM Client - Internet messenge.
FileZilla - FTP Program.
Web Programs
For Your Laptop

Virtual WiFi Router - Turns your Laptop into a wifi router.
Hot Spot Shield - keeps your laptop Internet connection secure and anonymous on public networks.
Xirrus WiFi Inspector - a tool for Windows that allows you to detect Wireless Local Area Networks
NetStumber - a tool for Windows that allows you to detect Wireless Local Area Networks
NetSetMan - a tool to allow you to connect to many different networks without changing settings.

Useful Free Websites

Meebo - Connects to any instant message service, MSN, Yahoo, Google etc.
Box.net - Free online storage
A Drive - Free Online Storage Basic Plan gives you up to 50GB of storage.
SpeedTest.net - Test your Internet (broadband) speed.
CodsWallop - Site that lists useful Web 2.0 sites.
WorldLingo - Free Online Translator
The Canadian Encyclopedia.

SimplyFreeware.ca
Disclaimer: I do not endorse any software that is listed here so you download and use them at you own risk.
Programs highlighted in RED are ones that I use on a regular basis.