Software is a powerful medium, and the list of available titles is growing exponentially. While it's easy to page through books on a store shelf, software is often hidden behind shrinkwrapped boxes. How do you determine which titles are best for your classroom, living room or office?
By reading reviews, downloading demos and heeding the advice of other software users. The resources below will help you determine which titles best suit your needs and interests.
See What They're Saying
Many computer media make it their mission to stay on top of the latest and greatest software. It's a good idea to browse or search their archives before making a purchase decision. Review sources include:
- ZDNet Product Reviews
This site draws software review content from the Ziff-Davis family of publications, including Family PC, Computer Gaming World, PC/Computing, PC Magazine and Macworld.
- PC Magazine's Software Reviews
See what the professionals have to say about software in this Product Guides section. Pick a category and start comparing products, prices, rankings and more.
- SuperKids Educational Software Review
Independent publication provides reviews and ratings of educational software.
Try Before You Buy
Shareware is downloadable software distributed on a trial basis. Shareware publishers rely on an honor system -- if you use the software regularly, you are expected to register and pay for it. There are thousands of shareware programs out there. Some are incredibly useful and others -- well -- aren't.
Demos are timed or crippled versions of commercial software that can be downloaded for preview purposes. They sometimes take hours to download, but can prevent buyer's remorse down the road. If you don't like it, you don't buy it. Some of the best shareware and demo archives include:
- Shareware.com and Download.com
These sites from CNET allow you to search for, browse and download freeware, shareware, demos, fixes, patches and upgrades from the best software archives and computer vendors. Weekly newsletters help software-aholics stay on top of new arrivals.
- Jumbo.com
Jumbo organizes more than 300,000 shareware and freeware titles. A "Must-Haves" section includes anti-viral shareware and the latest Web browsers.
- TUCOWS
Offers the latest WinZip 11.0, STOPzilla and Spyware Doctor 5, performance rated and checked for viruses.
- ZDNet Software Library
This computer publishing giant has spotlighted editor and surfer favorites. Check the Weekly Top 10.
Downloading 101
If downloading makes you nervous, pick up a few tips before you begin:
- CNET's Beginner's Guide to Downloading walks you through the basics and provides tips for downloading success.
- CMP's Tech Encyclopedia provides a good definition for "downloading." If you want to better understand the process, take a peek.
- Virus Center offers the latest virus news, software reviews and much more. CNET tells you how you can and can't catch a virus, and what you can do to protect your computer.
Check It Out
Many public libraries now circulate educational, recreational and multimedia software titles. They also offer a wide selection of books to teach you how to use the software once you buy it!
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