How to get free software



I’m a software junky and love to find out about useful applications that make everyday life easier or more efficient. Did you know there are piles of programs you can download for free? Many people have heard of open source software but don’t really know what it is or how it applies to them. The fact is, there are literally hundreds of FREE programs out there that can replace or supplement high-priced software.

The best source for free software is SourceForge.net. SourceForge is a repository of open source programs. They have everything from photo-editing software, to games, to word processors, to mind-mapping software. Whenever I need additional software I always start my search here. Sometimes you have to be a little patient and try several programs to find the one that fits best, but the process can be fun.

If SourceForge doesn’t produce adequate results, I will also check the social bookmarking site del.icio.us. It searches the online bookmarks of thousands of people. I find it more effective than Google or Yahoo! when looking for specific software tools. If one exists, someone has usually found it already and bookmarked it.

By finding free software to substitute for high-priced software, you may be able to save literally hundreds of dollars. I find I rarely need to buy software anymore. You can find very effective replacements for almost any major program. Some are even compatible with the paid equivalent. Here’s a list of examples:


Posted in Lists, Saving, Tools | 5 Comments »

5 Comments to “How to get free software”

  1. Craig Says:

    I find Version Tracker to be a reliable source for software information, too (including freeware).

  2. Solo Business Marketing Says:

    The CNet.com Web site has been very helpful to me when I search for free software.

    Because I’m a solo business owner, I tend to run with the rebels who go against the grain in every industry.

  3. Keter Says:

    A new free software package daily: http://www.giveawayoftheday.com/

    If there’s a catch, I haven’t found it yet, and lately some of the software has been really useful. I downloaded and installed one package so far, and it did exactly what it said it would and contained no detectable malware.

    You have to be patient for a title you want to pop up, and you have to install the package on the same day or the license expires.

    I’m not affiliated with them, just a happy (and thrifty!) user.

  4. Sojourner Says:

    Free Mac Ware blog
    Mac App A Day giving away a program every day in December
    Mac Heist: complete the mission and score free software!
    and Mac Update also lists freeware, in addition to shareware and other apps.

  5. The Stubborn Capitalist » Blog Archive » 106 Ways to Save Money Says:

    […] Software 85. Look for opensource applications. Here is some ideas on how to start. 86. Freeware and shareware can be found Download.com 87. In the mood for free games? Search through abandonware sites. A description of “abandonware”. 88. Need a quick game to take up time; look for java based games. 89. Again, eBay is an excellent source for used software and games. 90. Search Craigslist. 91. Student or teacher? Then you qualify for discounted rates on Microsoft programs. […]

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