Web 2.0 Weekly makes its 2010 debut with a review of an extremely useful Web 2.0 tool that can really save the day: Zamzar.  When I was looking over my list of previous topics, I was actually surprised to note I hadn’t previously done a review of this application, because it is so helpful.

Simply put, Zamzar is a free online tool that can convert a file from one format into another.  Their list of supported conversions is just too long to list here, but I’ll note a few that may be of interest.  Zamzar can convert from Microsoft Works or Wordperfect formats to Microsoft Office or OpenOffice.  This is especially convenient for Apple users.

To use Zamzar, you simply upload the file you would like to convert (or point to a URL, more on that in a second), choose which format to which you would like it converted, enter an email address, and agree to the Terms of Service.  A link to download your converted file will be emailed to you, so make sure you’ve entered a valid address.  The email may take up to an hour to arrive, so Zamzar can’t always be relied on in time critical situations.  Also, basic service files are only available for download for 24 hours.

As mentioned, Zamzar can also be given the URL of a file to convert.  This allows the user to do things like downloading YouTube videos.  A word of caution, though, please respect copyright when using this feature.  Remember, proper attribution does not mean a copyright violation hasn’t occurred.

Strengths

• Basic service is free
• Wide variety of conversions supported
• Ability to perform several simultaneous conversions
• Ease of use

Weaknesses

• Basic service is limited 100 MB files
• No online storage for free users
• Some conversions take a while to finish

Zamzar’s basic service level is free and there is no need to create a user account.  There are three levels of paid service, ranging in price from $7/month to $49month.  If you make frequent use of Zamzar, or need to convert files larger than 100 MB, these are for you.  Because Zamar handles the work of the actual conversion using their servers, all that is required to use the service is a Web-connected computer (with broadband Internet for large files) and an email address.