Windows Toolbox: Keep an Eye on Your File Processes With FileMon

You probably have no idea how many file operations are running behind the scenes on your PC. If you're curious, Sysinternals' free FileMon utility fills in the blanks in excruciating detail. Don't want all the nitty-gritty? A few settings tweaks to the Filter dialog box can make FileMon show you only the types of activity or files you want to know about. You can even instruct the program to automatically highlight certain files. FileMon can be a supergeeky diagnostic tool, or a practical workaday utility. For example, I use the program to see what files I've worked on (and when) to track billable hours. Click here to download your copy.

Send your Windows-related questions and tips to scott_dunn@pcworld.com. We pay $50 for published items. For more Windows Tips, see "Recent Columns" and "Archives," above. Scott Dunn is a contributing editor for PC World.