Free Software on the Internet

The Internet is packed with free stuff of all kinds. The problem is, knowing where to start looking for it. Most people locate a freebie, enjoy it, but then don't go much further.

This reference guide sets out to show you how to locate it, and which are the best sites to visit. It provides detailed listings of the most popular sources and products. Follow these suggestions, and you can soon be downloading free software, free music and video, free games, free email and web space - even free gifts. It takes a very sensible approach by starting with the most important thing of all - how to download files and save them onto your hard disk.


Next there's a guide to free computer games, free programs for hobbies, DIY, cookery, and home security. There's a whole chapter devoted to multimedia and design software - CD rippers, MP3 players, music making, and graphic design software.

He includes Internet software such as free browsers and research tools, plus utilities such as FTP clients, chat and messaging software, and firewall programs which might become necessary now that Broadband access is more popular as prices are dropped.

For people who would like to have a go at building their own web site, there's plenty of development software, such as editors, site analysers and HTML validators, plus free Java and CGI script programs.

Under 'education' there are free online reference books and encyclopedias, plus free quizzes. Then he ends with listings of free software for business purposes - calendars, contact organisers, spreadsheets, and free financial return software.

If what you need is missing from the lists, there's also a list of sites which offer archives of free software. The important thing with any guide to online resources is that it must be at least briefly annotated. Our eyes glaze over when we see an unadorned list of URLs. These guides offer short and informative summaries of what to expect when you reach the recommended site.