Free computer software, the pros and cons

Free computer software, the pros and cons

If you've ever needed to do a computer related task but didn't have the right software, you'll probably be aware that there's a plethora of available free software to do almost anything you can think of. Is there a downside?

Computers, with their processing power, mass storage and graphical user interface are all-singing and all-dancing creative and informative hubs in the heart of many people's homes. The one thing which makes your computer a useful tool at all is the software, which makes use of all that technology and translates it into the easy-to-understand format we use daily.

More and more people are using computers for much more than word processing and games these days. There is a widely diverse range of software available to fit most tasks and where there's a commercial application you'll inevitably find a free alternative. Free software has been around since the early days of mass computer use but never as accessible as in today's connected world.

There are three main types of free software...

Trial-ware: 

Trial-ware, which is free to use for a limited time. After which you can purchase the paid version. Shareware, which is usually limited in function until you purchase the full version.

And Free-ware, which is free to use and distribute.

Trial-ware and Shareware

Trial-ware and Shareware are good ways of testing the effectiveness of software packages prior to purchase and I've done this on many occasions. One of the pitfalls with such software is that some companies which offer these function or time limited software packages apply quite aggressive tactics once you've installed it. This can range from constant pop-up reminders to re-direction to their product page when you open your browser. Some even have no easy way of uninstalling so as to bully you into eventually buying.

True Free-ware

True Free-ware, on the other hand, is free to install and use. There can also be pop-ups in free-ware programs, and reminders of other paid software by the same company.

Some unscrupulous companies advertise their software as free-ware when in fact, they limit functionality in the hope that once you've installed and used the program, you'll end up buying it. I tend to steer away from such software even if it's useful as these tactics denote the type of business to which I wouldn't trust my personal details.

The other major concern with both Limited Use and Free-ware software is the threat of viruses. The number one rule for finding free software is to download from a reputable location. I usually recommend 'Major Geeks' website or 'CNET' as reliable download sources. Once you've downloaded a software package you then need to manually scan the file for virus, trojan or spyware infections using your security software. No matter where you get a file from, this is a must.

There are, of course, a whole list of reasons why you should use Free-ware and some of these are..

Cost... It costs nothing so value for money couldn't be better.
Availability... If you need the software and you're at a different location you can download it.

Some free-ware is for personal use only, with paid versions for businesses. This is a quite common and accepted practice especially with anti-virus programs. The type of Free-ware which is usually free for any use is 'Open source' software. This is software developed by communities who contribute to the programming of the software.

Bill is the technical consultant for A Star Universal company who offer computer users' security advice and laptop and computer repair Kent wide. Located in Teynham at the site of 'Azellwood Pools' which provides swimming pool builds and supplies throughout kent