What Is Software Testing

Software is computer data and instructions that are electronically stored. It is the common term for a variety of programs used to run computers and other related devices. It can be bought or obtained as a shareware (distributed free of charge on a trial basis, after the trial period it may be bought), literware (same as shareware but some capabilities are disabled), a freeware (free but with copyright limitations), public domain software (free and no restrictions) and open source (source code is given). Software downloads can be done manually using the CD-ROM and diskettes.

Instructions on how to download manually are usually written on the face of the CD. It can also be downloaded using the internet where a lot of software downloads today are available. Some are sold and some are available for free. When you opt to use the internet you will use the search engine provided by Yahoo, Google or other websites. Software downloads are searched by price, by manufacturer, by category, by software type, by operating system, by compatibility, by distribution media, by license pricing, by license type or by version. It can also be downloaded using the A to Z method, where you can search by product name.

Most software downloads are user-friendly. Easy to understand instructions are usually incorporated in the program and you can read these instructions before you download them. There are great sources for software downloads. DOWNLOAD.COM is among the largest sources for downloadable software in the internet and a subsidiary of CNET. With the acquisition of DOT.COM, CNEThas grown rapidly and now it’s an incorporation of several download sources. Another great source is the “TUCOWS”, a geek paradise. It has the final compilation of Winsock Software. Like download.com, it has software available for Macintosh, Windows, Linux and other operating and platforms systems. By downloading the software you acknowledge and accept the conditions attached to it.

The internet will be much more entertaining if you have the appropriate tools. Some of the must have software packages, tools and browser plug-ins are the Internet Explorer, Microsoft NetMeeting, the Netscape Navigator, the Windows Media Player, Real Player, the Apple Quick Time, the Adobe Acrobat Reader and the ever popular Shockwave. All these software are FREE. With the ongoing evolution of the internet, a lot of software sources that are downloadable are now available and many are still coming up in the market.