Why Don't I Just Use Free Software?

We all love the word "free", don't we? Just think of how many times every day we see it in advertisements and hear it on the radio. Why is the word "free" used so much nowadays? Simple: It gets our attention. All of us like the idea of getting something for nothing.

But there are a couple of old sayings out there we all know far too well: "You get what you pay for," and "If it sounds too good to be true (all together now...) it probably is." So let's dive headfirst into this subject, and we will see whether there really is free software and what we should watch out for.

Is There Really Free Software?

The answer to this question is: Yes, there really are useful and perfectly harmless computer programs out there that are absolutely, 100%, free. In many cases, these are produced by talented programmers who happen to have some spare time or want to practice something they have just learned. Other times, these programs are tools that the programmer wrote to help with a larger program, and now, out of the goodness of their hearts, they make them available to the public.

Now, you may be thinking, "Great! So what's the problem? All I need to do is go find some free programs!" Well, the problem is that the majority of the "free" software you come across out there is not made by one of these helpful individuals. Rather, most of them are made by individuals and companies whose goal is to make money off of you in one way or another. Read on to see what may actually be taking place every time you download a "free" program.

The Price of "Free" Software

What are the number-one problems with computers and the Internet that we are always hearing about? Spyware, adware, and viruses. There are numerous corporations out there whose entire business is based on stopping these programs and cleaning them out of our computers. And what is one of the main methods used to spread this malicious software? You guessed it, the so-called "free" downloads that we see all the time.

Here's what happens: Sometimes, when you download a program, such as a game or screensaver, it will require that you install several other programs along with the one you actually wanted. Some of these may be legitimate programs, and others may be adware or spyware. Other times the downloaded file may install these "extras" without even telling you!

Now, if you only download one or two of these programs, you may be able to get by without much hassle. But, if you install many of these programs, over time the number of "extras" will build up to massive proportions, and your computer will slow down to a crawl every time you try to do anything.

And here's the worst part: With a spyware infection this big, even some of the best spyware-removal software can be helpless. It can cost hundreds of dollars to have your computer professionally restored back to its "fresh-out-of-the-box" operating speed. All of this trouble just isn't worth it. So, what can you do to protect yourself and your computer?

What to Look Out For

First of all, just remember that old saying, "You get what you pay for." If you want good, quality software that will not harm your computer, in most cases you will simply have to buy it. There are plenty of legitimate companies out there selling top-notch programs over the Internet for a modest fee. Just think about this: It's much better to spend a few bucks on a decent program than to spend a few hours of headaches and frustration trying to figure out what's wrong with your computer. One way or another, you're going to pay for the software you choose. Go easy on yourself and stick with the good stuff!

Here are a few more tips that you will want to keep in mind:
  • Before you download anything, take some time to look over the website that it is coming from. If you see the word "Free!" plastered into every available space on the page, you may want to think twice before downloading the software.
  • If you see flashing banner ads all over the site or if you get a barrage of pop-up windows every time you click, be warned that this company is probably using you to make advertising dollars, and their "free" software will most likely continue to help them in doing this.
  • On the other hand, if the site is very professional (it treats you the way you want to be treated), and if the price of the software is plainly visible, it is much more likely to be perfectly safe to download a free demo or trial version of the program and then to buy it if you like it.
  • As you are installing a demo or free trial, read each section carefully so that you know exactly what is being installed on your computer. If you see anything that makes you suspicious that "extra" software is being included, cancel the installation immediately.
  • Look for an ASP logo somewhere on the site. (See the bottom-left corner of this page for an example.) This lets you know that the company or individual selling this software is a member of the Association of Shareware Professionals. ASP members must adhere to a strict code of ethics and are sure to provide you with excellent customer service and a safe and happy downloading experience.

Trying-and-buying software online is no longer the wave of the future: It is here right now. Online distribution is becoming the method of choice for both software companies and consumers. With a little caution and some advance warning like you read above, you can have fun riding this wave safely and securely. Happy surfing! (See also our Soapbox article: Is it safe to buy software online?)

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