Shareware is a marketing concept used by companies (or shareware programmers) to “try before you buy.” What this means is that you can download the software for free, just like freeware. Some shareware offers a limited usage time. Or, they may offer unlimited usage, but put banners or other advertising gimmicks into their programs. Once the usage period is over (or to remove the advertisements), you must purchase a license for the shareware at a nominal fee. Shareware programs may have limited support, but once you purchase the program, additional support resources (such as manuals, forums, email or phone help) may be available. So there are some advantages to using shareware over freeware, but again, you do so at your own risk. One definite advantage to both, however, is that once the usage period has expired (if any), if you don’t want to continue using the program, you just remove it from your computer without purchasing it.

Demo (as known as Trial) is the term used when referring to major (or well known) software companies who offer free downloads of their software products for evaluation purposes only. This evaluation concept is the key that makes this type of software download different from freeware or shareware. The company that offers demo downloads purposely sets out to obtain paying customers. Normally, the demo software is fully functional for a period of 7 to 60 days. Unlike shareware (or freeware), you probably will not be sidetracked by annoying advertisements since the company wants you, as a potential prospect, to fully evaluate their product without distractions. They also have strict policies on the evaluation period. Once you install the program, the clock starts ticking on the evaluation period, whether or not you use the program. And, once the clock runs out (the period for evaluation expires), the program is no longer usable until you purchase it. So, don’t try uninstalling and reinstalling because demo software is tracked in such a way (unless you are a serious hacker) you will still not be able to use it again for evaluation purposes on the same computer. The other advantage of demo software over freeware and shareware will usually be more extensive help resources (let’s face it, this is how a lot of companies that offer demo software turn demo users into paid users). You may also have the option to purchase a CD of the software. And, most companies offering demo software have a solid reputation or are well known (such as Microsoft, Adobe, Corel, etc.). But, plan on paying more for these types of programs, should you decide to purchase them after the evaluation period has expired.