If you like programming, one of the major frustrations with Windows has always been the cost of obtaining development tools. While there are admittedly many companies offering products at good value, the "gold standard" in this area has always been Microsoft, and their products are expensive. Visual Studio 2013, for example, which is the ultimate development suite containing everything you need in order to write Windows programs, retails for upwards of $500.

Until now, at least.

Microsoft has now announced Visual Studio Community 2013. It's pretty much a full copy of Visual Studio, as available in the shops for $500 or so. You can use it to create programs for Windows, Android and iOS. The deal is that it's available for use by individuals, non-profit companies, and teams of fewer than 5 developers. Which pretty much means every amateur programmer on the planet.

This is great news. So if you want your copy of Visual Studio 2013 Community, just head to http://www.visualstudio.com/en-us/products/visual-studio-community-vs and download it.

Before you start downloading, though, be aware that while the initial downloader is only 1 MB, it will then subsequently download up to 9,000 MB (yup, 9 GB) of files to your computer. SO if you're on a low monthly download limit with your internet provider, it could cost you if you're not careful. If you think this might be the case, check out the precise terms of your internet agreement, as you may find that all downloads are unlimited during night time hours.