The downside of freeware

The downside of freeware software.

Freeware software can be great for savvy computer users looking to get some great programs that do everything from virus protection to word processing. Developers of freeware software get a chance to promote their work and get people interested in their software for purchase. But like many things that are free, freeware software has downsides for both the consumer and the developer.

Limited features - If a program is freeware, it sometimes comes with limited features. This is either done to encourage users to upgrade to a full paid version of the program, although this is more common with shareware software that is usually a trial software download. Sometimes limited features on freeware are due to time constraints and development limitations of the developers; after all true freeware is free. Therefore the time and effort spent making freeware might mean features that could be included aren't included.

Little or no tech support - Freeware often comes with a help text file, but not much more. Some larger freeware programs that have large communities of developers and testers backing them, such as Mozilla Firefox and Linux, have very expansive and helpful online forums and communities. But many of the smaller freeware programs, no matter how great they are, have little or no tech support or way to contact someone.

Bugs and glitches - Freeware programs sometimes have bugs and glitches that were never fixed before release. Depending on the developer of the freeware software, updates to the program may be far and few between or non-existent. This means problems with the software might never get fixed. This can also mean that security flaws can be exploited by hackers and viruses and the patch for these flaws may be a long time coming, if they come at all.

Ads - Some freeware comes with advertisements, or programs that install ad and spam software on your computer. While most of these add-on programs are harmless ways for the developer to make some revenue off the software, they can be a burden when using the software or just an annoyance. Although since freeware is free, having ads in the software seems fair.

Lost revenue - Developers who make freeware software are fully aware that they will often spend more in time, effort, and their own money developing and hosting the freeware then they will make back in revenue. A lot of freeware developers either make paid versions of other programs, ask for donations, or rely on ad revenue to make a living. Other companies who make full feature programs for purchase that are similar to good freeware programs may lose revenue because it is hard to compete with a free product.

Overall though, I have had great experiences with freeware. I've used and continue to use freeware programs on both PC and Mac machines that include spyware removal, anti-virus programs, web browsers, and word processing programs. Supporting freeware software through spreading the word about a good program, making donations to the developers, or purchasing other software from the developers can help ensure quality freeware continues to remain available.