Do not confuse Freeware with Free Downloads. Free downloads just allow you to download the software at no cost. Not until you have installed the software are you asked to pay for it. Often there is a "free" period of use, and then partial or complete functionality ceases until you have paid for the software.
Freeware as defined by Wikipedia.
Software classified as Freeware is normally fully functional for an unlimited time with no cost. Freeware can be proprietary software available at zero cost. The author usually restricts one or more rights to copy, distribute, and make derivative works of the software. The software license may impose restrictions on the type of use. For instance, the license may be "free for personal, non-commercial use".
The Free Software Foundation asks users to avoid calling free software as "Freeware". Their reasoning is that they define free software as software that can be used, studied, and modified without restriction. Free software embodies the concept of freedom to use, while Freeware is where user just pays nothing...with some restrictions. I consider the Free Software Foundation's definition to be "open-source" software, where the code is available to modify and use without restriction (except copyright restrictions). Also, Freeware is also different from Shareware. Shareware obliges the user to pay for the Shareware after some trial period.
Shareware as defined by Wikipedia.
I avoid Shareware for many reasons. The principal reason being the Adware in most Shareware applications.
By contributing to support Freeware, you are helping yourself and others.
Due to plethora of content available on YouTube, like that found via links below, I have decided to spend my time on content related to applications discussed on other pages of my web site.
However, I will continue to review Freeware and update my Freeware Favorites as time permits.
Suggestions for Freeware are always welcome. If you use any I have not listed, please send an e-mail. Thanks in advance!
While there are a plethora of websites devoted to Freeware, these are some of my favorites.
PLEASE NOTE: Do not confuse FREE DOWNLOADS with FREEWARE. Many FREE DOWNLOADS are SHAREWARE and will not work after a predetermined period of time, will keep nagging you for payment, or can be very hard to uninstall.
Last Updated: October 16, 2021 Top of Page
Content here will be programs I have written. Most of what I develop initially will be freeware and will include source code. Any comments, suggestions, etc. regarding improving code, or fixing issues are always welcome.