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There may be no such thing as a free lunch, but there is such a thing as free software. Sign me up, you say? Read on... WHAT IS FREEWARE? The etymology is simple: Free - no cost; Ware - as in software. Freeware is software that can be downloaded and used without cost (Such software is copyrighted, however, so don't get any smart ideas about using any of the programming for your own gain!) Probably the best known examples of freeware are Web browsers, which have become synonymous with the Web. Other freeware examples include e-mail, games, multimedia plug-ins and other utilities of all kinds. WHAT IS SHAREWARE? Shareware is yours free too, but with some restrictions. Pay Later Some shareware will work only for a certain period of time, or is provided on the understanding that you'll pay later, when you've had a chance to check out all of a program's features. "Lite" versions Shareware may also be in the form of "lite" versions or test versions (often called Beta versions) of full or complete software programs. In the case of "liteware," the hope that once you've seen how great their product is, you'll pony up the cash for the full version, which could include technical support, free upgrades, and a manual. (In the case of "betaware", the makers may ask you to give them feedback on how well the program works.) TIP:  A liteware may be perfectly adequate for your needs. Don't trade up -- and pay up -- unless you need to. On-Screen Advertisements Another shareware alternative is a deal in which you get a full version of the software, but with attendant -- and sometimes annoying - on-screen advertisements. If you pay, they'll go away... "Postcardware" And then there's "postcardware" -- all you have to do for the privilege of using it is send the makers a postcard. How sweet is that? The distinctions between "free" and "share" are blurring, as more and more advertising appears on both kinds of programs. HOW DO I FIND FREEWARE AND SHAREWARE? Sometimes it can be hard to miss. Did we mention that Netscape and Internet Explorer are freeware...? Sometimes you'll be directed to it -- as in the case of plug-ins. Sometimes finding the program you need is like looking up something you can't spell in the dictionary. You don't know where to look. But there are Web sites that act as clearinghouses for a multitude of programs. Or, try conducting a keyword search for the type of program you're looking for - for example "+e-mail + freeware". Once you've found a program you want to download, make sure that it's compatible with your computer and modem set up. SO THERE'S REALLY NO CATCH? Uh -- no, not that we know of. As long as you're sure of any terms, conditions and limitations that apply, download away! CAN I EXPECT ANY PROBLEMS? Beta programs -- test software -- may not be as stable as the full versions and may not come with much in the way of customer support. You should also be aware of the possibility of viruses and bugs. Don't download everything you see -- you may infect your computer. (Though the risk is small, it's always a good idea to keep an anti-virus program running on your computer, just in case.) Now you're ready to find and use all the applications you need to have a great surfing experience! print this lesson | back to lesson main page Upgrade the most useful piece of freeware you'll ever find: your browser. Click here to upgrade your Netscape Broswer Click here to upgrade your Internet Explorer Broswer (America Online users can download AOL's own compatible versions of these browsers via America Online. )