Sunday, June 12, 2011

Software – Sample software with shareware

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Even if you get a great deal on a computer, you still need software to make it do anything. And that can get expensive. That’s where shareware comes in.

Shareware is software you download and try for free. If you like it, you pay a fee to keep it. Freeware is similar to shareware, except there’s never a fee. Either way, you pay less than you would for packaged software from major vendors.

You can find shareware for virtually anything, from antivirus software to organizational tools to games. It’s a great way to sample software and save money. However, you need to keep some things in mind when dealing with shareware – or anything else you download from the Internet.

Beware of unwanted extras. Software can come with hidden surprises, like spyware and adware. With adware, you get bombarded with ads when you open an application. It’s the price you pay for cheap or free software. Spyware is even more sinister. It tracks which Web sites you visit on the Internet and reports back to advertisers, who can then target you more efficiently.

Viruses can do even more damage. While some just display words or an image on your screen, others can change, delete, or damage files in your computer. Some might even keep your computer from working at all. Like spyware and adware, viruses can sneak into your system when you download something from the Internet.

To protect yourself, do your homework. Read several reviews of products before downloading them, and download only from reputable sites. Also, read the entire software agreement to uncover any mention of spyware or adware. Of course, you’ll also want the latest antivirus software guarding your computer.

Downloading only programs you really need. Check if your computer comes with an application to do what you’re trying to do before resorting to shareware. And make sure you can easily uninstall the program if you don’t want it.

Remember, shareware means you having to share your wealth with big software companies. Just make sure the software you download isn’t “sharing” an unwanted surprise with you.



All the best,



Timben