by Stan Grimes

Created on: May 05, 2008   Last Updated: July 06, 2008

Since joining the Internet world in 1998 I have searched through many of the millions of resources available at the touch of a mouse or a keyboard. One resource that I never get tired of using is the use-net group, alt.comp.freeware. I have found it to be quite useful in locating free software available that performs the same tasks as its costly counterparts for sale in your local electronic stores. Like most news groups it is splattered with occasional "spam" introducing you to solutions for erectile dysfunction and porn opportunities, but that doesn't deter the many very important discussions on freeware found in this vital little newsgroup.

I have found various programs that I use daily and the greatest part about them is they're free. I use a registry cleaner, a form-filler, a firewall, a spyware detector, and many other useful programs on my personal computer. They work fine and they are, again, free. Now, I have found some freeware I can't use, or will never use. Stuff like vector drawing freeware and alternate Internet Browsers, and alternate mail programs, I just would never use. I am pretty much in my comfort zone with Outlook Express and Internet Explorer.

I do use the freeware version of Zone Alarm Firewall. It works great and didn't cost me a penny. All I had to do was download it and install it. It does the rest of the work. I use RoboForm, freeware form filler. It remembers your login IDs and passwords for various websites to which you're registered. It can fill in all information for loan applications, credit applications, and registration forms. RoboForm is a handy tool. I use registry cleaning tools that get rid of empty folders and history files that take up a great deal of space on your personal computer.

Please remember to use good judgment. Not all freeware is created equal. Some freeware is considered "crippleware." Crippleware is a program that only performs part of its purpose. If you want the entire program, you must pay for it. There is also software that is considered "adware" or "nagware." These programs carry the producer's ads or they nag you to donate or to pay for the full or professional version. Some "spyware"programs will "phone home." In other words, they will spy on your activities on the Internet. They will follow you to the sites you like to visit and use that information to tempt you into buying their products. Remember though, since the advent of the Vista Operating System many of these freeware programs have had to be modified to work with Microsoft's new system. So, if you visit freeware sites and you own Vista, be sure these programs can work with Vista.

Generally, however, freeware is marvelous and most freeware programs are up front with their products. They will tell you if what you're getting isn't as good as its professional version and they will tell you if their freeware program is going to nag you for the rest of your life. My opinion? If you can't afford the big money programs, try freeware. Just type in the words, "free software" or "freeware" into your favorite search engine and you will find hundreds of resources. You won't be disappointed.

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