Try before buying: This is one easy yet sensible step to verify the usefulness of software. Once you download software for free from internet, it is obvious that you will be able to use it for a limited period of time, which is generally two weeks to one month. Once this time period is over, you will have to pay a certain amount of money to keep using the same software for another month or so. But before you pay you should make sure that the software works well with your system and you are well aware of its functions and features.
Save some cash: If you want to save some money and also want to buy the usable software, then shareware is your solution. Shareware is very less expensive than the commercial software but solves your purpose. On the other hand, the freeware give you ultimate freedom to pay nothing and still fulfill your needs. If you are a believer of the old saying that ‘what you get is what you pay for’ does not apply in this case as the freeware are mostly well designed and solve your purpose satisfactorily.
Real vs. virtual market: Now here comes the issue from where should you buy your software. Real shops or online stores? Both has its pros and cons. If you go to a software store and start choosing your required software, you will see the choice is very limited and you are bound to select from only a few options. But if you buy it online you are given a large variety to choose from. Visiting different websites also enhance your knowledge about different programs and their functions. You get to know what application serves what purposes and which programs can be availed for free. But while buying online, you should be sure about the authenticity of the particular source and its user response. But downloading software online saves your time; you get what you want from home. Many find this process convenient.
About open source software: Software that is available for free is termed as open source. It means that the specific code that makes the software work is open and anybody can access it. Many people modify the open source software according to their requirements. But you should also abide by the terms and conditions of its service regulation. People in software business often use these software and customize them before distributing it to their clients. You can re brand or add features to particular open source software and earn cash out of it. It also raises awareness and popularity for your brand.