Freeware is software (computer programs) that you do not have to pay to use. There are many kinds of freeware available.

Freeware can be programs developed by large computer companies offerered to complement what they charge for, or to help users with software for specific tasks.

OpenOffice is an office suite that has a word processing program and spreadsheet that is available for free and many people use it instead of buying Microsoft office. I use ccleaner that is freeware which will clean the registry on my computer to let it run faster.

Many people use anti-virus freeware. Some of the more well-known ones being AVG, Avast and Microsoft Security Essentials. Several of the major database makers provide a free limited use copy thru freeware. Oracle and MySQL are two examples. Sometimes the organization offers a free version and also has a copy for sale with more bells and whistles.

Some people are scared to use freeware as they fear it has malware (viruses, spyware, Trojans, etc.). This is the case with some freeware. You need to make sure your anti-virus and spyware programs are up to date when getting freeware. The best way to get freeware without malware is to download from the producer of the freeware’s website and not some other site that collects freeware and other software.

Send your questions to Dwight Watt at dwight@dwightwatt.com. He teaches at a technical college in northwest Georgia and does consulting work for businesses and individuals. His website is dwightwatt.com.