ShareMe

FreeWare

In the computer realm we find a term called freeware. What most people do not understand is freeware is copyrighted software given away for free by the author. Just because the software is free it does not mean you do not have to obey the copyright laws. Usually, you are allowed to use the software, but not sell it or change it in any way.

Why would a company build a program just to give it away? There are many reasons why people develop freeware. One reason is to promote a software product. It is a marketing strategy. For the most part freeware is only a portion of a larger program, the bare essentials. Most freeware comes with limitations. If you want the full version or the up grade you have to buy it. Even though freeware has limitations it may be all you need.

To test the software. By placing the software on the market for free the company has no obligation to the user. The user becomes the tester of the software and reports problems to the company so the company can fix the software. Once the software is fine-tuned, the company can then sell it.

Then there is a bad side of freeware. Some freeware come with hidden adware, spyware, malware or other viruses. This is when you get all those pop ups trying to get you to buy their products or it may crash your system so you won’t be able to use your computer.

As you can see there are pro’s and con’s with freeware. The problem is, how do you know which is good or bad? The truth is you really don’t know, you can only speculate. So if you want to try freeware, you have to do your best to guard your computer. You have to protect yourself.

Protect Yourself

You have to be careful when dealing with freeware. You may be downloading a program that has some sort of spyware, adware or virus.  Before you load in any freeware, you need to protect your system. Here are some good ways to protect yourself.

1. The first thing to do is make sure you have the latest antivirus protection. Read up on the different antivirus software and get the one that fits your needs. Always keep your antivirus up-to-date.
2. The second thing to do is to set a restore point on your computer. Go to the start menu and choose the ‘Help and Support’ menu. Click on ‘System Restore’. Then choose ‘Create a restore point’ and click next. Type in a name for your restore point and click ‘Create’.
3. Now for the most important thing for you to do. Make sure you back up your system! Back up your system on an external hard drive then make sure the external drive is not connected to your computer when you load and run the freeware. You need to know how to restore and/or format your computer. If something goes wrong with the freeware and wipes out your computer, you will have to restore and/or format it.

I would not suggest you use any type of software you are not familiar with unless you know how to back up your system and you are able to format it. Otherwise you might end up loosing everything on your computer.

Learn how to format your computer before you use any type of freeware!!!