I've used all of the software I link to, but some have worked better for me than others. I've also found that the more experience you get coding, the more features come in handy for you. On the other hand, when you're starting out and are just making the move from a text editor to a real HTML editor, too many features can just by annoying and confusing.

For Beginners

As a beginner, you should be interested in getting three things: a good code editor, an image editor, and an FTP client to upload your pages. You can get other software as you need it.

All of these programs are easy to setup, configure and use. Here are my picks for a good "beginner's kit":

The best beginner's HTML editor out there. It has all of the functions commonly used and introduces the coder to color coded tags and other neat pro tricks. It has integrated file management and a preview browser so you don't have to keep your browser and file manager open all the time. Quick previews of your work as you go.

This is a truly amazing freeware. It can handle every type of image format I've seen and even playback most video and audio files. It's a lightweight dynamo. I use it exclusively for image format conversions, resizing, cropping and cutting. You can even add captions to your images and make a single compound image from several separate images. Just great!

Really easy to use FTP client. It's unlimited shareware and works as easy as dragging and dropping files in Windows Explorer.

Advanced Coders

As you progress and take on larger projects, you'll need new tools to keep you on top of your work. Below are fully featured tools to make your life a lot easier. By this point, you need to start adding some drawing and higher end graphics capabilities as well as better coders.

Below is the basic kit I use everyday. You can take your pick from the HTML editors. I use HomeSite, but 1stPage 2000 is every bit as good. Try both. Here's my picks:

The favorite of most "Hard Coders". This editor is an unlimited shareware that is used by many professional coders including <Code_Punk>. It's "extended replace" function makes changing a link across a hundred pages a breeze. Many other features are included like tag validation, link checking, on and on. A great site coding and management tool.

OR

Any of the other good freeware editors I've linked here

A really good drawing program with a lot of features and effects. Unlimited shareware. Same folks have a good icon and cursor maker, too.

The best of the freeware FTP clients out there. Fast and easy to set up and use. A "Pro" version is available. The "LE" version is the freeware. Links are at the bottom of the page.