How to Find Free Software

Podcast Notes

Image by dff.jisc via Flickr

The open source community provides free software for just about any application you can think of. If you just got that new computer, and you don’t want to pay for an office suite, or a graphics program, or anything else you use on a daily basis, there are a few websites that offer tips and tricks and reviews on the best free software.

CNET

CNET is one of the most reliable sources for tips and tricks to finding free software. They usually present several expert reviews of various products, and they also rank them. CNET will send you to the website where you can download your free software.  Be aware that some free software is only free in the trial version. You will eventually have to buy it, so if you need a certain application longterm, avoid trial versions.

Sourceforge

Sourceforge is the biggest collection of free open source software. It has everything categorized by what’s new, what’s popular, or what type of operating system you use. The folks at this website also feature a new product for you to try. They also have a blog that keeps users and programmers up-to-date in the latest releases, fixes, and software news.

CNET and Sourceforge are both very reliable websites for finding free software. You should start with CNET and read as many expert reviews as you can, and then you’ll be better educated to browse the tens of thousands of applications waiting and Sourceforge. If you’re nervous that free open source software will be difficult to use, don’t worry. Most of it is super easy, and the programs also come with support.

Enhanced by Zemanta