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General discussion

Type of program least likely freeware?

Dec 18, 2010 1:57PM PST

Looks like AV, spyware and photo editing are the easiest free downloads you can find, not just on CNET.

What category is the most difficult to find for free while at the same time doing its job?

Better yet, what features do draw the line between Pay and Free? I know AV programs have scheduled scans and updates. AV charges for spyware protection - spyware protection charges for AV capabilities, for example. What features are most conspicuously absent from free downloads?

Discussion is locked

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Can't say
Dec 18, 2010 2:30PM PST

I have 17 Gb of freeware. I am a freeware junkie and can come up with something for darn near everyone. My wife says it's better than being a pack rat, she doesn't have to clean up the mess. Wink

That said, out of all this freeware, I can't say there is anything that stands out. I have so much freeware that is fully functional, it's hard to count. I have some that have limitations but all have different missing functions as all are different programs. To say a common function missing is likely impossible. There are "to me" and "if you truly know where to look" a near fully functioning or is full functioning, for anything you need.

Yes, there are limitations, I know, but I have survived off freeware for years. I am now to that point where I cannot find anything I need or want that is free, sad but true.

Anyway, I cannot answer this as I don't feel there is a correct one.

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I tend to agree with PK.
Dec 19, 2010 8:54PM PST

If you search you can find almost anything that is freeware.

Quality will differ greatly of course, and some may be scams, eg the say free but they are in fact trialware, and you have to purchase to get the full features.

So it's difficult to give you a comprehensive answer.

Mark