The Foxit Reader program is probably the best option around for anyone looking for an alternative to the usual Adobe Reader.

ZIf you occasionally have to read PDF files and you aren't so keen on the Adobe offering then you might like to give this one a try. Those who use PDFs a lot in their work might also be interested in the high degree of customisation available, the three levels of security and the fact access which this free program offers. The fact that it takes up a bit less of your system's resources than the Adobe Reader is also a plus factor which is worth mentioning.

As well as simply viewing PDF files, you can also find specific text, verify the digital signature on a document, email files, save PDFs, print and use advanced editing options such as the addition of links and images. All of these features are of varying usefulness for casual users, but those who spend quite a lot of time at work with this kind of file could find a big time saving to be had here, as it generally runs faster than its main competitor despite offering all of these options.

As regards the interface, the sizeable toolbar gives you easy access to just about all of the options you might need, although a lot of users will be happy to customise this bar and get rid of some of the less important features.

One thing you can't do with Foxit, and which will maybe put a few people off, is actually create a PDF file. If you need to occasionally make documents in this format then you will just need to carry on using another program or using free online convertors to get it done.

As part of the download process you will need to untick the option if you don't want the Foxit toolbar and for ask.com to be your default home page. Then there are some pop up messages asking you to choose add-ons for the Foxit reader. Some of these are free and some aren't but overall the nag factor takes a little bit of gloss off a good, well presented program which does what you would expect it to.