Executor

When you first install Executor, you can choose one of six layouts. To begin with it's a good idea to choose the 'fancy' or 'big skinned' options, as you'll then see a list of potential commands with descriptions when you bring up the Executor window with a hotkey (the Windows key + 'Z' by default). Executor scans your Start menu to learn your programs, and it launches a program when you type its name. It displays a list of potential program or command matches in a drop-down list as you type, so you don't have to type the full name.

In addition to launching programs, Executor provides quick access to system tasks such as the window for the Windows firewall configuration or display settings. You can also enter a URL to bring up the page in your default browser. And if you want to start a program in a certain way, such as starting it minimized or with particular program parameters, you can create a custom keyword assignment to do so.

You can also assign hotkeys for particular keywords, to start up Firefox by hitting CTRL-F, for example. When you finish typing or click outside the Executor window, it automatically tucks away to the system tray until you call it up again.

If you're a power user out to make using Windows as fast and efficient as possible, you might like the handy and functional Executor (and you might also want to check out the similar and also well-made Enso Launcher). On my test system, Executor used about 13MB of memory.

--Erik Larkin