Freeware

What is Freeware?

Most software applications you come across cost money, either as an up front cost or to lease over time. Shareware is software that is often free to try but that must be paid for if you continue to use it. Freeware - as the name implies - is software that is free!

Why? In many cases, freeware applications perform similar tasks to more common, paid-for ones, perhaps with fewer features.  Often they are small applications designed by enthusiasts - for themselves - to perform specific tasks.  Making them freely available is often seen as a way of giving something back to the freeware community. Increasingly, commercial organisations are offering their programs are freeware, making money through support or enhanced features.

At Kenilweb, we use and recommend many freeware applications both for home and office use:

• Ubuntu is a Linux based operating system. Completely free for personal or business use, it can be used in place of Microsoft Windows on desktops, laptops and servers. Very powerful and easy even for the novice to install, Ubuntu is an excellent example of the power of freeware. Try Ubuntu on a live CD; a complete operating system that runs from a CD or DVD without making any changes to your current system.
• Mozilla Firefox is a free web browser that can be installed on many operating systems, offering some great features as well as excellent security. When we install Firefox on a PC, we seldom have to return to remove spy and adware!
• Open Office is a complete office suite that competes head on with Microsoft Office. Though perhaps not as polished as the incumbent, Open Office offers most of the functionality, compatibility with the common file formats and ease of use. All at an unbeatable price!
• Audacity is a an application for capturing and editing audio tracks, again available for a range of operating systems. Simple to use, Audacity is a great way to record and export music on your PC or Mac

There are literally thousands of applications available for free; take a look at Freeware Genius, a site that lists and categorizes some of the best with regular updates.  If you find any that you think should make our list, then please pass them on!

For custom installation advice, call Calum on 07973 241413 or contact him through the website here.