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Downloading The biggest misconception of downloading software from the web is that "I'm downloading it, so it better be good" but most people are naive and ignore that fact that the web and software is more complex than they think. Lets say software is broken down into 3 parts "The Good." "The Bad." and "The Ugly." So where does "I'm download loading it, so it better be good" classify. Hard to say. But Maybe this will give a little more insight Steps to be safe 1. Don't just download anything that's thrown at you. 2. ONLY download trusted software from trusted sources. 3. Always read the EULA before installing(I know it's so boring but it might save you from installing something that you didn't want in the first place [Tip] copy and paste the EULA to wordpad and search for keywords like ad and third party that should be quicker More Tips The Good. Software that should be always Legitimite, Worth your time and Effort to use. Freeware: Software that is distributed free of charge, no limitations, no hidden extras, just use it and love it, hence the name "Free" usually distributed by the open source community and by people who just love making software. Note: Freeware is an umbrella term and is commonly mistaken as bundledware, spyware, and adware, or any relations to it which is false. Demoware: Both shareware and freeware combined, usually software that is a demo of a full version of software only it's limited, but doesn't cost a thing. Shareware: "Try it before you buy it" aka trialware would pretty much sum things up, basically Software that has gone commercial for profit. You share and After the trial has expired, which is usually limited to 30 days, or of limititions of features, nag screens, and shutdowns You can make the decision if it's worth the price.. The Bad. Software that is not necessaraly evil, but still usually something that should be avoided Ad-supported-ware: Software that is ad-supported; like most websites, sadly. Okay so technically not considered Adware nor Freeware as long as it display ads only in it's own interface, and doesn't install third party software. Crapware: Poorly coded software, clunky, bloated junk that doesn't work or is just bad. It can be both commercial and free to use. I've tried a few of these in my day. Bundledware: Software that claims to be free but is the exact opposite from Freeware it also contains unwanted software such as adware, spyware, crapware and other sorts. (Which should say in the EULA, usually your able to opt out if not forget it) The Ugly. Evil Evil Evil Deceptive little bastards! Run a way while you can. Adware: For the most part Unintentionally installed, "Notorious software" that both displays unwanted pop-ups, displays ads, slows down your computer, installs third party software and hijacks your browser. Yeah, yeah you probably heard it a million times it is not very fun to have around. Spyware: Almost always Installed unintentionally. Different from adware, It is Hidden software that Tracks your movements, your surfing habits, makes lists of what you do and who you are, and sells your information to other companys to make profit off of you. Yeah doesn't sound very soothing to the soul either. But it gets worse! Dungeonware: Like bundledware it's loaded with unwanted software and other crap. It looks like something useful but theres a catch, it secrectly installs junk without forewarning, therefore no way of knowing what is going to be installed or no way to stop it. Usually how adware,spyware and malware get installed in the first place. Pretty shady Baitware: Shareware that's gone corrupt. Usually free to use but disabled in a way to make the user over pay for it without trying it out first. Malware: Virus's, worms, trojons, backdoors All of the above. Unlike spyware ad adware these are bent on the destruction of the computer data, files and everything else. Just wonderful isnt it? More info |
