The program should have little or no advertising to support it. Preferably the program has had an update in the last year or two. It has to have at least a free-for-life option. If the software is on a tiered sales model, the free version cannot be trial-ware. However, we've included web-based apps that are as good, or better, than some downloadable programs. The software should (typically) have a Windows-based download. The software must be available directly from the developer/creator/original publisher. That's why one of the criteria for inclusion here is that the program is available directly from its maker. It's not foolproof-after all, developers want to eat, too-but it helps. For more about how to spot and avoid this problem, see How to Rid a New PC of Crapware, and check out the Uninstaller section below.Ī pro tip: only download desktop software from the maker of the software directly. Worse, the installation routine obfuscates the steps, so you provide the unwanted program tacit permission to be installed. To make ends meet, many creators of otherwise great free software, or the services that offer the programs for download, bundle in things you don't want.

Something to always watch for: crapware installers.

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