What Is FREEWARE?

Basically:

Freeware is the all-encompassing oft used "generic" term for software application's  and utilities which are downloadable form the internet to your desktop and are are provided without any charge whatsoever to the computer user.

The "Very Basic" Shareware vs. Freeware Comparison:

What is Shareware?

• It is software that is offered on the Internet for preview purposes.
• At the end of the preview period, it must be purchased or uninstalled.

What is Freeware?

• It is software that is offered on the Internet and made for the distinct purpose of allowing people to download it for free.

• Examples: Acrobat Reader, Shockwave, QuickTime

This question as well as the various differences between different kinds of costly and cost-free software installations which are downloadable from the WEB is covered more closely in the following section:

What exactly is Freeware?

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What are ALL of the different types of DOWNLOADABLE software are there?

Freeware

With this type of program the author reserves his rights on the software. It can be therefore copied and used by anybody free of charge, but it cannot be modified. It is necessary to have the author's prior consent to use the code. It is common for authors to release freeware versions of their programs with limited functions, for evaluation. Some types of freeware are limited to personal use and cannot be used for commercial purposes; others require the user to register.  

Freeware for personal use

This type of freeware is limited to personal use and cannot be used for commercial purposes. With FREEWARE programs the author reserves his rights on the software. It can be therefore copied and used by anybody free of charge, but it cannot be modified. It is necessary to have the author's prior consent to use the code. It is common for authors to release freeware versions of their programs with limited functions, for evaluation. Some types of freeware are limited to personal use and cannot be used for commercial purposes.  

Registered Freeware

This is freeware that needs to be registered. It is often necessary for the user to send his details to the author in order to use the program. With FREEWARE programs the author reserves his rights on the software. It can be therefore copied and used by anybody free of charge, but it cannot be modified. It is necessary to have the author's prior consent to use the code. It is common for authors to release freeware versions of their programs with limited functions, for evaluation. Some types of freeware are limited to personal use and cannot be used for commercial purposes.  

SHAREWARE

SHAREWARE is by far the most common type of downloadable software distribution on the WEB. These programs can be copied and distributed free of charge to allow the user to evaluate the product in view of an eventual purchase. There are some variations that are indicated in the license agreement. The most common is the evaluation period: the author sets a period of time for the free use of the program (usually from 15 to 30 days). After this period it is necessary to either purchase the software or remove it from the computer. The purchase involves sending money to the author and consequent registration. Sometimes registering a program entitles you to receive updates free of charge.  

Postcardware

These programs can be copied and used by anybody as long as the user sends a card to the author of the software. Some programmers request a card on a theme. The code cannot be modified without the author's prior consent and the author reserves his rights on the software.  

Nagware

This shareware variation presents visual disturbances or similar while using the program. These disappear after purchasing the software. SHAREWARE is the most common type of software distribution.

These programs can be copied and distributed free of charge to allow the user to evaluate the product in view of an eventual purchase. There are some variations that are indicated in the license agreement. The most common is the evaluation period: the author sets a period of time for the free use of the program (usually from 15 to 30 days).

After this period it is necessary to either purchase the software or remove it from the computer. The purchase involves sending money to the author and consequent registration. Sometimes registering a program entitles you to receive updates free of charge.  

Open Source/GPL

These programs adhere to the Free Software Foundation project aiming to create a number of programs available on the internet free of charge with a view to promote programming.

Software with this type of license (GPL) can be used and distributed free of charge, like FREEWARE, but in addition the programmer must include the program's codes. 

Public Domain

This software isn't bound by Copyright restrictions as the author waives his rights and makes his work available to the public. Anyone is therefore free to use or modify the program. This software can be used in commercial products. PD distribution often includes the program's sources, which can be copied and modified.  

Abandonware

Abandonware is computer software (such as an operating system, word processor, interactive game, or audio file) that is no longer marketed or distributed by the company that created it, but is obtainable from some other source. Some popular products that have been at least temporarily abandoned include NeXTStep, the operating system for the NeXT computer; OpenStep, its successor; and many interactive games that were replaced by more sophisticated products.

In some cases, a company or Web site gets permission from the creator to distribute the abandoned program; but sometimes they don't. To use abandonware that you download, you often need a license string that the software recognizes as entitling the user to install it. In this case, the downloading site provides a license string that is known to work.
Abandonware is often provided as freeware or as priced shareware.

Adware

This category enjoyed some popularity a few years ago (among advertisers and programmers), but has long since become the "Outlaws of Cyberspace," and is considered a menace by all software users and a vast majority of program developers. ADware - also referred to as SPYware - most common nowadays in the game-related freeware.

Adware is commercial but free software - generally fully-functional, but often provide you with a constant irritating stream of advertisements embedded directly in the software which you cannot turn off. Sometimes, even after you remove the program by uninstalling it, the product's program developers fix it so that the popups remain.

Advertising-supported software or 'adware', spyware programs are also designed to snoop on your surfing habits. They're most often included in crappy shareware or freeware programs, or as cookies downloaded through innocent-looking web pages.

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Author’s who ask for registration would like to more about the kind of people who are using the program - Business Users, Home Users etc.. Sometimes the company that they work for requires the author to prove how many people actually use the product.

It is often necessary for the user to send his details to the author in order to use the program. With FREEWARE programs the author reserves his rights on the software. It can be therefore copied and used by anybody free of charge, but it cannot be modified. It is necessary to have the author's prior consent to use the code. It is common for authors to release freeware versions of their programs with limited functions, for evaluation. Some types of freeware are limited to personal use and cannot be used for commercial purposes.

Registration gives the program's author a better idea of what direction to take for future development of the product.

Advantage: By registering you will usually receive notifications about new versions of the product or other information from the author.

Disadvantage: Sometimes unscrupulous program authors collect e-mail address lists in order to sell your e-mail address to advertisers. My suggestion would be to make doubly sure that you check the "no" checkbox when asked if you want to receive e-mail from "other affiliates."

TIP: Also create a Yahoo! or My Way e-mail account which is JUST for giving to program registrations, so that you do not clog up your most used or 'regular' e-mail box with useless spam.

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What are "Utility Programs?"

Utility Programs

A  Utility Program is generally of software that carries out accessory operations, with no direct effect, but with the result of simplifying other operations.

Typical examples are: WinZIP (to manage compressed archives), Cool Edit Pro (to manage wave files while changing their characteristics or applying sound effects) and MP3Wolf (useful in the search for MP3 files on the net).

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What is the "difference" between "Utilities" and "Applications"

Applications

Most of the computer programs you use are Applications. An Application is a program that performs a specific job, for example Microsoft Word is an Application used for word processing. A program designed to perform a specific function directly for the user or, in some cases, for another application program.

Other examples of applications include word processors, database programs, Web browsers, development tools, drawing, paint, image editing programs, and communication programs. Applications use the services of the computer's operating system and other supporting applications.

Utilities

A  Utility Program is generally of software that carries out accessory operations, with no direct effect, but with the result of simplifying other operations. Such as software program designed to perform a computer system's routine housekeeping functions, like copying, deleting files, and/or providing techniques to simplify the execution of a program.

It can also be a program that performs a specific function such as communication, file management or any other task that pertains to the user's computing environment and is not likely to be included in the choices from an application such as a word processor.

The biggest differences between utilities and applications

The biggest differences between utilities and applications are (usually) the sizes of the programs and the fact that utilities can often (but not always) be used "on their own" without actually installing anything into your computers operating system.

Another HUGE difference between the two - is what happens when something goes wrong.

If a utility fails it is usually "no big deal" - you just miss the utilities functions. However BIG problems (both currently and 'down the line) can occur - when the application which "goes whacky" is one that that you have actually installed into your all-important and essential Operating System.

This situation can potentially cause you major problems with other applications especially if the temperamental affected 'gone-haywire' application had initially installed itself as an essential integral part your operating system. The most insidious part of this is - that the problems (with other applications) might not show up for weeks or even months after the original problem with the 'gone-haywire' application originally showed up. Therefore you have no way of knowing what actually caused the NEW problem.

My suggestion: If you are having major problems with an application:

1. Contact the site or developer that you got it from.

2. While you are waiting for a response from the products manufacturer if it is at all possible immediately uninstall the 'problem' application.

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Most folks create a website that is based upon a topic and concepts which interest them, a hobby or to they want to promote a product or products. One of my favorite hobbies is trying out and collecting new and innovative computer related freeware, shareware and donation-ware utilities and applications. Over the years, I have tested and collected various kinds of software products for safety, reliability and general usefulness.

One of the main reasons I decided to create a website which is primarily positive "freeware related"  - is that any time I mention freeware to the many people out there who are unaware of these programs, they automatically assume because the products are free - they must be of low (or no) quality. Or worse, they have been unfairly convinced by someone else's slanted view that "all freeware developers are piling on the spyware or adware".

When then opportunity to create and be the primary author/administrator I decided to devote it mostly to freeware-based topics and other WEB related and offline computer based topics of interest.

To find more reasons why... Check out this site's Basic Mission statement - which covers this question in far more detail...

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Why Don't You Lament About All AWFUL SITES and Negative Things About the WEB?

I don't have a long enough lifespan for that task - lol

For now, the primary focus and mission will be devoted primarily to offering as many positive aspects of downloadable FREEWARE as well as providing as many site links and URL addresses as I can - particularly on the eternally updated "Up & Comers" and “Standard Bearers" as well as the "Student Freebies Site Section Pages.

As well, I will also be covering and discussing topics such as “Internet and Computer History” and the immense access to the freedom the WEB brings and the issues – good and bad which all this access to information in microseconds brings.

In my view, it is quite sad really, that for every positive website review of just about any topic covered on the WEB - you can find 10,000 sites for negative reviews on that same given topic out there...

Alas, I have been told over and over that "a "sunny day" rarely makes the headlines or attracts many visitors to your site!"

Actually, I decided early on in this venture not to concentrate entirely (or even very extensively) on Web “Security Issues” such as Virus/Trojans/Worm removal, etc. as I am not at all qualified or proficient in evaluating or fixing these problems.

There so many "WORMS - Viruses and Trojan Bears! - Oh My!” sites which are out there with their fingers in the dikes - concentrate on the "faulty security issues" and often completely ignore anything "good" available on the web.  While many of these Virus Warner’s and “the cyber-end is near” related sites are certainly well meaning, benevolently motivated and provide timely useful information…

I prefer to concentrate my limited time, website space and efforts toward finding out what’s fun, useful and timely or innovative - and on the web based freeware products and websites out there and topics concerning useful online/offline computer use.

Also, I actually have only ‘occasionally' on this site and will continue to include only limited commentary on some of the vital and imperative security related matters as well as referrals to more qualified, more appropriate computer safety and protection sites.

The “Oh NO... What a WEB we Weave!” section of this site will provide recommendations for everyday and common problems encountered by computer users by referring users to “Troubleshooter Sites” which can offer tips help you find relief for your web headaches and “bugs” that pop up from time to time.

These referrals hopefully will assist you in finding your way through whatever problem comes up with answers. I am forever in awe to how much help you can assess from the Internet – particularly when you learn to use the various search engines correctly.
 

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Freeware sounds TOO GOOD to be true... All Freeware Developers Can't Be SAINTS, Right?

This question was sent to me by someone who wrote one of the funniest e-mails I ever received in my entire life! The answers is: NO Of course not - Freeware developers are not all saints! Some have sold their souls by adding spyware to their programs. Sometimes you might run into a program out there that "claims" to be FREEWARE but is really just a demo or you find out (after you download it that it is really SHAREWARE. But the overwhelming majorities (at least in my experience) are very thoughtful folks – whose prime interest is in developing a better product and making life easier for computer users and at the same time, more productive for their users.

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Is it always SAFE to DOWNLOAD Software from the WEB?

The Internet is a great resource for many things, including software. There are a lot of good (and a lot of bad) programs available for download. FreeWareRocks.com Freeware Website Navigator will tell you about different ways to download software, types of software to download, provide links to some great download sites, give you some tips to make downloads - as well as your computer use - more efficient and successful, and how to download safely.

If you want to ensure the outside world can't get access to your PC while you're online, you need to install a personal firewall. As many of us pay for our internet connection using a flat rate for unlimited access, we tend to spend longer on the net, giving hackers more time and opportunity to break into our computers.

There is a variety of different firewall options available for personal use, ranging from simple free software you can download for personal use to more complicated commercial software you have to pay for.

What you need from a personal firewall is something that's going to keep the bad guys out and let in the people you trust. If you're running a simple PC configuration with one machine accessing the internet, things are fairly straightforward. If you've got more than one PC sharing an ADSL connection, you'll need more configuration options, allowing different machines on your home network access to each other.

This Download Safety topic is covered in FAR MORE detail in the section entitled:

Is it SAFE? - WHAT are the “PITFALLS? (of Direct Downloading from the WEB ?)

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Why Don't You Address More About All of the BAD Freeware Websites

While I do briefly mention some of the unique problems and pitfalls occasionally associated security issues, compatibility, etc. during downloading as well as when installing program and utility "internet downloadable files" - I rarely - (almost NEVER), really - point out any BAD sites or even some of the "considerably less than desirable" freeware websites specifically by name.

Neither do I provide their URL addresses or hyperlinks to them. To do so would be unnecessarily and unintentionally promoting them. While I have considered such a page for this website from several requests by this websites navigators... As I state on my Site Mission Page - For now, the primary focus and mission will be devoted primarily to offering as many positive aspects of downloadable FREEWARE as well as supplying as many innovative and useful site links and URL addresses as I can.

If you are interested in BAD sites to avoid, my suggestion would be to type the words "FREEWARE PROBLEMS" into any search engine.

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What is Adware?

This is a program that carries advertising. The advertisers pay the author to show their ads to you when you use the program. Typically these are programs that connect to the Internet so that the ads can be rotated. Examples are: E-Mail checkers, File download utilities, Free Internet access services.

Generally, I'm against some of the far more "intrusive" or obnoxious ADWARE which interferes with your ability to use the program or utility. Some people are completely against adware, but I think (sometimes) it is a small price to pay for some really excellent programs. An example of the type of Adware I don't mind that much is iWash. It works great and the ads are only noticeable when you start the program.

Does the advertising stop me using the program properly?

While some adware can be a bit distracting, generally the ads usually take up only a very small part of the program window and the authors take this into account when they design the window.

This TOPIC is covered in far more detail in the section entitled:

What is FREEWARE?

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What are Beta versions?

They are programs that are still being developed. The program's developer offers these versions (prior to releasing the "Final Version") because they needs help testing the program and finding any "bugs" so that they can be fixed.

Will you have a problem with a Beta program? Probably not, if you are an experienced computer user.  We advise you to think carefully before you use a beta version of a program if you are fairly new to computing.

Why do you include Beta versions?

I include (a FEW of) them because it gives people the opportunity to try a program that often cost a considerable amount of money in its final version. I also include them to help the new program's authors.

Bugs in a program can be annoying to some users but some are very difficult to find and you will rarely run into them. It requires a lot of people to use a program and try out its features to actually find a minor bug.

If you find a bug in a BETA program you can submit a "bug report" to the author. It is not necessary to send the bug report me; because I really cannot do anything about it as I do not have the expertise (or program code) to alter other developer’s products.

Always read the program "Read Me" notes to see what the author asks you to do. If possible, you should explain exactly what you did and what happened. If you can’t or won’t send in bug report, you can usually still download a beta version. However ignoring a bug is the equivalent of your mechanic not telling you about a funny noise he hears during a routine tune-up that he knows ought to be investigated.

Program developers and authors also get a small number of people to help with the early testing. I include very few ALPHA program version sites because they are generally very likely to contain significant bugs and the Alpha testing stage is all about finding these and fixing them.

These topics is also covered in far more detail in the section entitled:

What is FREEWARE?

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Are Viruses really "Bugs"?
How can I protect myself from Viruses?

First of all:  Do not confuse "Bugs" with "Viruses"

A bug is a flaw in design, coding or manufacture of software which causes all -- or some portion -- of a program to not perform as expected. A bug is an unintentional error in a program. It may cause the program to do something strange or even crash. It is not normally harmful to your computer or your other programs provided the program is intended for use on the Operating System your computer uses.

A virus is a piece of code written into a program that is intended to cause problems or serious harm to your computer. There is a mass of information on the Internet about Computer Security and Protection.

Are All Viruses harmful?

There are viruses that are not all that "damaging" but can provide others with information about you and your computer (through your own internet connection). At the very least this is an  invasion of privacy and you cannot know how this information will be used.

Viruses are covered in more detail in the section entitled:

Cleaning Your Computer- Inside and Out

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Why don't you check ALL OF the programs which you list for Viruses
(so your site's viewers DO NOT have to?) Why - Why - Why???  lol

The question often baffles people who are not familiar with freeware or download installation files, but the answer is quite simple: Because you cannot download a program from the FreewareRocks server.

That's why I provide you with a LINK to an authors' download site - Not a LINK to download the program.

Here's the "rub:"

I could download the program myself (even do this several dozen times!), check it and find it completely clean, and then the the author could replace the clean file with an infected one five minutes later, we would not know!

It is much better and safer for YOU to check every program you download - yourself.

How can best I protect myself from Viruses?

You should NEVER open or install a program you download without first using a reliable Virus Checker Program like AVG Anti-Virus - AVG Free Edition!

We list a lot of good free programs on this site but my favorite one for Anti-Virus is definitely AVG. If you want a totally sophisticated program that checks for all known viruses on the planet you will probably have to purchase it. But I've had good luck with AVG and I download hundreds of freeware programs per year to test them. But that's not saying you'll never have a virus either. It only takes one bad apple out there to get a virus.

Another tip. Make it a habit to ALWAYS automatically or perhaps even manually - update your virus program - every single time your computer boots up. Better safe than sorry.

Viruses are covered in more detail in the section entitled:

Cleaning Your Computer- Inside and Out

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Demos are free, why don’t you include them?

Demos are not really FREE software, since they are intended just to demonstrate the capability of a software title, without actually giving the consumer all that much to work with. Demos are useful if you just want a peak before you buy, but if your intent is to get free use of software, demos aren't it.

Demos are applications which work 'for free' for only a limited period of time or repeatedly remind you to register and pay for the product are not Totally Free so they do not fit our definition of Freeware.

In my experience - over many years - I have probably downloaded hundreds of these programs (as testing software is my hobby). Out of all of these programs which I tested, I probably found two or three of any actual use (well, actually - "limited use") to the average computer user.

Demoware is software system that has some deliberately installed limitations which show the system's capabilities but do not permit extensive application by users. Limitation with respect to time is not the only possible way to make demoware. There can be limitations on numbers of transactions, data volume, etc.

Most "demoware" is categorized into two basic types:  "Crapware" which is full of bugs and all but useless, in my opinion. "Secretly Shareware" which means that the author has really tricked you into believing that the product is a "demo" but it is full of "nag screens" which provide a plethora of popup screens at the end of the programs use (or when the program starts up) which encourage you to purchase the program developers paid version.

These topics is also covered in far more detail in the section entitled:

What is FREEWARE?

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Why don’t you list any Shareware?

I actually do list a few "incredible" Shareware programs - but not very many. In my experience, there is almost always an freeware alternative out there on the WEB. There are a few "special" shareware programs that I list because are just plain spectacular (for the functions which they provide) and are not available as freeware as far as I know. And several sites which I list also have freeware as well as shareware available.

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You list a program that I really want, but the site’s link doesn't connect?

Broken links occasionally occur for the following reasons.

• Author’s sometimes move site pages or change their host or even their domain name URL, and don't tell take the time to tell me.

• Sometimes the program becomes Shareware or the program is sold to another company and consequently the site's address changes.

• Sometimes the author's program is VERY popular and the developers host has an inadequate host with mirrors and had limited bandwidth allowed.

Try clicking on the program name (or any picture of the program I have provided) which will take you to the Author's home page. You should be able to find a working download link there. If you do I'd really appreciate it if you would take the time and trouble to tell us about it too. Please E-mail me if you find any broken links. If you’d prefer not to leave an e-mail address you can use the Feedback Page anonymously.

Tip: Another thing you can do if you cannot reach the author from a link on my site is to copy the program's full name onto a search engine entry.

URLs may change and newer versions appear frequently. If you cannot find a program listed in this guide, use a Search Engine-- at least you know the file's name! This is what I do if I'm on someone else's site checking out freeware programs and this happens. It's worth a try, especially if you "really want" that program.

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I clicked on a link (at the website you referred) - but I was told it was forbidden, why?

There are two probable reasons for this:

First of all, it is most likely the "privacy" "security settings" in your browser. If you have your browser set to not accept anything from an insecure site you will frequently get an access denied message. If the site cannot connect to your computer, it cannot send you the download file. it is as simple as that. Since the majority of Freeware sites require that cookies be enabled - you must decide if you want to change this setting.

Second is the link itself might be broken (as discussed in the previous section).

Answer: Change the internet settings (Internet Options ~~> Privacy) or save the site link to favorites (Ctlr + D) and check it later

You're welcomed to E-mail me me about this event if you want, but there is nothing I can do about your inability to access a particular link (at any particular moment) on another person's website. I'd appreciate the info though, because I have no intention of promoting any even FREE product on my site if it is actually not accessible from the site which the product's developer lists.

I try to check pretty regularly all of the links on my site to see that they direct my viewers to the best possible page on the great sites which I list and I rely on my sites visitors to notify me by e-mail me if there are any problems...

An excellent example (of the problem asked about in these last two questions), is an experience which I recently had with a company called Freeware Web. In my opinion this site  is one of the best sites on the WEB, particularly for new people to freeware. The interface on all of the pages is easy to read and provides great info. This site does not list any shareware and they update frequently. No surprise - it is very popular as freeware sites go - with my sites visitors.

Recently, they changed hosts and servers and did not contact me. I understand this, because it must have been a hectic time for them and if I had to contact everyone I list on my site - even with a mass mailer - it would take a few weeks at the very least...

Anyway a new viewer who just found my site - was grateful for all the freebies and tweak site listings so she e-mailed to say "thanks" and mentioned that the particular link to Freeware Web did not work properly.

I was then able to alter the listing to warn people that the site was changing hosts and the link may be unavailable. I really appreciated the "heads up" from the grateful new viewer.

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There's a license agreement to this program, what's that all about?

Freeware products very often often subject to specific types of license agreements. You should read the appropriate documentation carefully. It will tell you what, if any, restrictions the author places on the use of the program. It may be just a standard disclaimer that you use the program at your own risk.

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If it says I may only use the product for personal use what does it mean?

It simply means you can use it on your own personal computer at home and you can tell your friends about it. You cannot imply that it is your product nor can you use it in your business.

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Will all of the programs which you list here work on my computer?

This is a question which "newbies" frequently ask. The brief answer is: NO not all will work because I list a variety of different program sites and many programs' installation files discriminate as to which OS (operating system) which they are compatible to work with.

Examples:

1. MANY programs that are compatible to Windows are not compatible to MACS (and visa-versa)

2. Some programs are not compatible to different Windows or MAC versions. (i.e. It will work with Windows XP but not Win 98 - or in the case of Macintosh, it will work with Apple Mac OS but not OSX)

You need to know what operating system your computer uses and ALWAYS look at our listing to see if this operating system is included. Prior to downloading  ANY application or utility: Be absolutely sure to carefully read all of the documentation provided! To see and THEREBY KNOW if: It is compatible (works with) w/ your particular "OS" (Operating System)

Example:
Is it: Win 95/98/Me/2000/XP/Win XP 2003 OR "MAC" (MACINTOSH) compatible.

If you NEGLECT to read the instructions:
You can easily crash (and even ruin) your system and even need to re-install Windows by trying to load a program that was not written for your computer’s OS.

******ALWAYS******
******ALWAYS******
******ALWAYS******

View as much as you CAN from the sites BEFORE you download!
CAREFULLY the program ENTIRE description...

As well as (if it is at ALL possible) look over the "Help Files" that are furnished with the program before and after downloading. Also make SURE to read the description to find whether or not it is easily uninstallable. Always utilize your updated Anti-Virus program whenever downloading ANY programs into your computer!

Also - Create a System Restore Point PRIOR to the download NOT During OR after you install the applications. This way you can always "Turn back the clock" so to speak. The two seconds it takes to create a System Restore Point before you do anything will save you tons of trouble should something go drastically wrong after you download and install a program.

(BETTER to be SAFE than SORRY!)
 

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Why do some program sites list a "lite" and "full" version?

Please note that directly downloadable software sometimes is available in two versions - LITE (sometimes using the letters LT after the products name and version number) and FULL version. "Lite" freeware usually (but not always) means FREE but generally has less functions and some options may be blocked - until you "upgrade" to the FULL version.

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What is a "Download Manager" and Why should I get a "Download Manager?

Here's a Real Timesaver Tip: If you download a lot (especially if you still use dial-up) and notice that it often happens very slow and even stops, it's a good idea to use a download manager. This way you can cancel your two hours work of waiting, and continue your download the next day when the server may be less busy. Such a good time and money-saver.

There are three "Download Managers" that I like a lot: "Download Accelerator" as well as "Star Downloader" and Fresh Devices "Fresh Download"

Both work well, but if you are new to all of this, you should really install them

Star Downloader has an easy-to-use management features help you to organize your files. It is capable of creating unlimited number of categories, each category has a specified hard drive directory, files placed in categories will be stored in the specified directory. Other features include auto hang up, proxy support and scheduled downloads. Star Downloader works with Internet Explorer, Netscape, Mozilla, Opera, and K-Meleon.

Fresh Download is a robust download manager software that turbo charge downloading any files, such as your favorite software, mp3 files, video files, etc. Unlike similar utilities, this software is 100% free, no charges, no banners, no spyware. Key features of Fresh Download: resume broken download, multiple connections, integration with Internet Explorer, Opera & Netscape, scheduling, clipboard monitoring, drag & drop, antivirus support, zip extractor, etc

Note that Download Accelerator comes in two versions - The first is a "lite" ADWARE version which lists ADS  -This ad-supported software version includes technology that will serve banner advertisements through the program interface. And it comes in a shareware version which lists and downloads all your programs without ADS.

Download Accelerator is a good program though it requires a bit of configuration tinkering to really get the most out of it - that is why I do not recommend this program for those who have no idea how to configure programs. Many newbie users have e-mailed me that they had trouble once they tried to configure the Download Accelerator program. Also, I have noticed that - in the various computer-related forums which I use - many users report that the full shareware version works WAY faster when compared to the adware version.

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How can I determine whether the Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 run-time files are installed on my computer?

Some programs require that the Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 run-time files are installed on your computer. To determine whether the Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 run-time files are already installed on your computer:
 

Open your Windows System directory (e.g. c:\Windows\System or c:\Windows\System32).
 

If there is a file named msvbvm60.dll, the Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 run-time files are installed on your computer.

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How can I determine whether Microsoft Windows Installer is installed on my computer?

• Open your Windows System directory (e.g. c:\Windows\System or c:\Windows\System32).
• If there is a file named msiexec.exe, Microsoft Windows Installer is installed on your computer.

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How can I determine the version number of Microsoft Windows Installer?

1. On the Start menu, click Run.
2. In the Open box type "msiexec".
3. Click OK.
4. The Windows Installer message box displays the version number.

• If this command displays the message that "msiexec"' was not found, Windows Installer is not installed on your system.

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What are the "Essential Security Tools" for "Safety" During Online Computer Use?

Tools are only part of the security solution. First you need a strategy for protecting yourself and your computer online. Then you'll know what you're doing, and you'll know which tools to get. If you just get some tools, you won't have the strategy. The strategy is more important than the tools. If you haven't been there yet, read more about the threats and the defense strategies you can use.

Antivirus programs

These programs have been around almost as long as computer viruses -- long before the Internet came along. The original viruses were carried by floppy disks. Viruses (and most worms) are fairly "dumb" (compared to Trojans). Viruses are usually limited to a few malicious deeds, but they can be very damaging nevertheless. Antivirus programs work fairly well against the current breed of viruses. They're effective against some worms too. (Your best defense against all of these critters is your own wits though.)

Many people believe that their Antivirus program is all they need to protect them online. Some of these same people often don't even know that they need to keep their antivirus signatures up to date. Soon they have virtually no antivirus protection. (In fact, the signatures on brand new computers are often months out of date.) Antivirus programs do not protect against most Trojans and they do nothing to protect against hackers. People who simply rely on their "Norton" or their "McAfee" to keep them safe online are tragically uninformed. They needed to start with a defense strategy. Then they'd know what they need to do.

The "Antivirus" page provides more information on antivirus programs. I use Norton because it came on my computer, and because it consistently rates high in the reviews. I prescreen my email, and delete a lot of the junk on the server. So I don't get many virus warnings -- maybe one or two a year. But I'm always happy they were intercepted before I inadvertently activated them.

Firewalls
The purpose of a computer firewall program is to keep the malicious hackers malware out of your computer.

The actual term “firewall” is a partition that was designed for real (hot) fire safety in tenement apartment buildings as a special wall that would keep a fire from spreading through all of the walls everywhere throughout the apartment building. This is the same process which is happening on the World Wide Web. When a “fire” is burning – (one of these big worms, Trojans and virus’ spreading) – the firewall keeps those worms from spreading onto your computer. It’s really very handy and useful for computers – at home or at work – that is permanently on the Internet, like the DSL or cable modem customers. Even for dial-up modem users, we find that fast-spreading worms will infect your computer in the 10 or 15 minutes that you’re on checking your e-mail.

They won't stop a virus worm, or Trojan from getting in. They may not stop a Trojan from getting out either. If you've never used a firewall before, you probably should start with one that's easy to set up. The heavy duty ones require a good understanding of how things work on the Internet. There are many firewalls to choose from -- even some free ones.

Anti-malware programs
There's a whole menagerie of malware that you should have protection against. An antivirus program just doesn't cover the bases an longer, although some antivirus firms are making noises about doing it. It's not clear yet just how broad their coverage will be. Besides viruses and worms, there's spyware, adware, foistware, Trojan-horses, hijackers, dialers and more to worry about. There are now some good anti-malware programs to choose from.

Anti-Trojan programs
Some really vicious Trojans have been spotted on the horizon. Anti-malware programs are good protection against most Trojans, but this new strain requires something more robust. I recommend Trojan Hunter, but take your pick.

Security suites
Suites are just several related programs that are "bundled" together -- usually at considerable savings. If you already have a good antivirus program, a suite may not offer a real bargain. Norton and McAfee both offer nice security suites.

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