Although there are a number of free Nero alternatives available for Windows, very few or none of them come close to Nero as far as the overall performance, user interface, and features are concerned. The free version of Nero 9, Nero StartSmart Essentials, comes with basic set of features that you would expect in a free software.

 

There are options to change data burning speed, verify data on disc after burning, and simulate before burning.

The only catch with this Nero 9 free version is that it comes with only data burning and disc copying features for CDs and DVDs. To get additional features you need to upgrade to the Nero 9 free full version. Even though there are tabs labeled Rip and Burn, Create and Edit, these tabs only offer an option to upgrade to the paid version. So, in other words, download and use this Nero 9 free full version only if you deal with data burning and disc copying.

If you are looking for a good data burning software, this is the best application as it’s very stable and easy-to-use compared to other burning software out there for Windows.