Free Virtual Desktop Managers including VirtuaWin [1], Microdesk [2], Dexpot [3] and Virtual Dimension [4].
VirtuaWin [1] is a competent but basic product that depends on third-party modules for extra features but unfortunately there aren't many around. Microdesk [2] comes with more standard features such as 99 desktops, configuration of each desktop (name, password, wallpaper and icons), an attractive interface and a configurable transparent menu above the tray bar to navigate between desktops. However, there is no detailed FAQ and no forum. Dexpot [3] allows even more configuration for each of its 20 possible desktops with its well-organized interface and enables easy switching between desktops and quick movement of windows. The online documentation is slightly incomplete and the most active section of the online forum is in German. This should not prove to be much of a hindrance, due to the ease of use of the application. Last but not least is Virtual Dimension [4]. With a more minimilistic and "straight to the point" approach, I found it to be fast and easy to install, configue and use. Documentation seems to be lacking a bit, but once again, like Dexpot, it should not be much of a problem to begin using this little VDM.
The four Virtual Desktop Managers I reviewed are all very capable products but I have to recommend Dexpot [3] due to its attractive interface, ease of use, various language versions and features list.
[1] VirtuaWin
Website: http://virtuawin.sourceforge.net/
Download link: http://virtuawin.sourceforge.net/downloads.php
Author: Johan Piculell
Current version: 3.2
Version date: November 08, 2007
License: Freeware
Download File size: 382 KB
Operating Systems Supported: 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP/2003 Server/Vista
Additional Software Required: Modules needed for Extra Features
64 Bit Capable: No
Portable Version Available: Yes
Non-English languages supported: None
Other relevant information: Open Source Software
[2] Microdesk
Website: http://www.septimiu.ro/
Download link: http://www.download.com/Microdesk/3003-2346_4-10402623.html?tag=tab_rev
Author: Mare Septimiu Fabian-SimSoft
Current version: 4.1.5
Version date: June 22, 2005
License: Freeware
Download File size: 980.84 KB
Operating Systems Supported: 98/ME/2000/XP/2003 Server
Additional Software Required: None
64 Bit Capable: No
Portable Version Available: No
Non-English languages supported: No
Other relevant information: Free Registration required for activation
[3] Dexpot
Website: http://www.dexpot.de/en/index2.html
Download link: http://dexpot.de/index.php?id=download
Author: Sebastian Brands, Patrick Dubbert
Current version: 1.4.0
Version date: March 3, 2006
License: Freeware for Personal Use
Download File size: 1.76 MB
Operating Systems Supported: 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP/2003 Server/Vista
Additional Software Required: None
64 Bit Capable: No
Portable Version Available: No
Non-English languages supported: German, French, and Spanish
Other relevant information: Personal use is free. They charge 10 Euros per license for commercial use.