Free software is software that is available for download without charge. This is distinct from paid (commercial) software. The Free Software Foundation defines free software as “free and open source software that can be modified, used, and shared without limitations.” Free software includes the Linux kernel, BSD operating system, the GNU Compiler Collection & C library, the MySQL relational database software as well as the Sendmail mail transport agent, and the Blender 3D computer graphic software.

It’s important to understand that it is illegal to download paid software free without paying for it or paying for it. This is known as piracy and deprives the developer of money and may cause the product to fail or cease to be supported in the future. Similar to downloading pirated apps from non-official sources could result in malware or virus infections.

TechSpot Downloads update every day with dozens of new programs in categories such as productivity communications, security, and gaming. It also provides a comprehensive guide which helps users avoid potentially harmful downloads, and also to discover alternatives.

FileHippo is a well-known web site that hosts a variety of active applications and categories like Windows and Mac software as well as Android applications. The pages for each app also contains short, informative reviews written by actual users. This will give you a better idea of the app’s capabilities and benefits prior to installing it.

The drawback is that FileHippo might at times require you to install a new program before the one you’re looking for however it’s clearly marked and easy to avoid, and doesn’t promote shady software. Also, it has a vast back catalog of older versions of many description applications. This is helpful if you’re in the process of upgrading older apps or are concerned about stability problems with the most recent version.