Freeware

Literally, software provided for free - no charge. This is not as uncommon as might be expected. Major software developers often give away old versions of their products to allow users to try them at no charge and, hopefully, succeed in tempting them to purchase the current release.

Independent developers may give away small programs to establish a reputation for useful software, which then enables them to charge. Cover disks attached to a computer magazine often contain Freeware.

As with Shareware, Freeware should be approached with caution, and staff dissuaded from trying out their new Freeware on organisation equipment.