How To: Save Money Using Free Software
make your list
Look at the programs installed on your computer, and start by removing any applications that you have used in the past, but no longer need. Now write down the programs you are using. If you have two or more apps of the same type, write down only your favourite. Underline the ones that are not free.
Now you have an overview of all the software you have, both free and paid.
Look for alternatives
For every paid program you have installed, look for free alternatives. You may find it difficult to choose one to make the process easier, read some reviews and study the features and disadvantages of each program. This may sound complicated, but it really isn’t. Any good app has been reviewed at least a couple of times on well-known websites. If you can’t find any reviews for a program, it means it’s either unreliable or very new.
A good review should include the program’s features and problems/bugs (if any), some user interface screenshots, and system requirements (so you can be sure it works on your computer).
When free is not enough
If, for example, you need a powerful image-editing app and the free ones you’ve tried aren’t enough in terms of functionality, it’s okay to say no to freeware and buy the app you need. The same goes for cases where you have a paid program but can’t find a viable alternative at all.
Other than that, when you find a free app to replace a paid one, feel free to do so. Even replacing 5 programs can save you a great deal of money. Some programs even have an annual license renewal (in which case, you’ll save even more money).
Where to find free apps
Finding free apps shouldn’t be a problem. There are numerous websites that offer free software downloads and even paid app trials – all legal, of course. A simple internet search will reveal dozens of them. Just be careful to download the original installation file, as some websites include applications in their own installers, which also include third-party toolbars, search engines, and other applications.
When you’ve finished going through your list of software and made possible replacements, add up the license costs of the business applications you no longer use to see how much money you’ve saved.
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