Free software is computer software that is free of charge, in contrast to paid, proprietary (commercial) software. The Free Software Foundation defines free software as “free and open source software, which can be modified, used, and shared without restriction.” Free software includes the Linux kernel, BSD operating system, the GNU Compiler Collection & C library, the MySQL relational database software and the Sendmail mail transport agent and the Blender 3D computer graphic software.
It is important to know that downloading paid software without having first purchased it is a crime. This is known as piratery, and it deprives developers of income. It can also cause the software to fail in the future, or not be supported. In the same way, downloading pirated software from non-official sources could lead to malware or virus infections.
TechSpot Downloads update every day with hundreds of new programs across categories like productivity communications, security, and gaming. It also comes with a manual that will help users avoid potentially harmful downloads and to find alternatives.
FileHippo is another well-known site that hosts a variety of programs in use, broken down into categories such as Windows and Mac software, Android apps, and web-based apps. Its page for each program also features short but informative descriptions written by actual users, to give you an idea of what the app does and what it can offer before deciding to install it.
The drawback is that FileHippo may at times prompt you to install a different program prior to the one you’re looking for however it’s clearly marked as a simple and safe option and doesn’t offer untrue software. It also has a large back catalog of older versions of numerous programs. This is a great option if you’re looking to upgrade older software or are worried about stability problems with the most recent version.