Just my list of Apps and Tools I use on my Vista machine... 

Essentials:

• MSN Messenger http://messenger.msn.com
• Skype http://www.skype.com
• Firefox http://www.mozilla.com
• Extension: Fasterfox https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/1269/
• Extension: IE Tab https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/1419/
• Extension: Tab Mix Plus https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/1122/
• Extension: refspoof https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/667/
• Extension: Image Toolbar https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/243/
• Extension: JavaScript Debugger https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/216/
• Extension: Open Java Console https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/141/
• Extension: Sitebar Client https://addons.mozilla.org/addon.php?id=1545
• Adobe Acrobat Reader http://www.adobe.com/

CD / DVD / File Tools:

• Deep Burner http://www.deepburner.com/
  Download and run as Admin
• 7-Zip http://www.7-zip.org/
• ExtractNow http://www.extractnow.com/
• Pandora Recovery http://pandorarecovery.com/

Multimedia:

• DivX Codec http://www.divx.com (do not install on MCE machine)
• Xvid Codec http://www.xvidmovies.com/codec/
• Last.fm http://www.last.fm
• iTunes / Quicktime http://www.apple.com
• Media Player Classic http://sourceforge.net/projects/guliverkli/
• Paint.Net http://www.getpaint.net/

Development:

• PowerShell Link
• .net Framework 3.0 Link
• VS2005 Extension for WWF Link
• VS2005 Extension for WCF and WPF Link
• Visual Studio Team Explorer Client for Codeplex projects Link Direct Download Link