Your Data Center FAQ

Q: What is shareware?
A: Shareware is software that expires after a certain period of time (usually 30 days) or has some type of built-in encumbrance or limitation in order to encourage you to purchase the software.

Q: What is freeware?
A: Freeware is software that does not come with time limits, nag screens or limitations of any kind. Although the author will want you to respect their copyright, it is free for you to use and enjoy without cost.

Q:  What is a demo?
A:  A demo is a small "sample" program which, for example, might include the first two levels of a game. To purchase the other levels, you will be required to register the software.

Q:  What is a beta program?
A:  A beta program is an application that is currently in the "testing phase" of production. An author will typically release a beta version of their software with the hope and expectation that the general public will download it and report any programming errors so that they can be corrected. This ultimately results in a better final product.

Q: What is postcardware?
A: Postcardware is free software. The author will usually expect you to send them a postcard or "thank you" email in return for allowing you to use their software at no charge.

Q: What is public domain software?
A: Software in the public domain is free providing you respect the author's licensing agreement.

Q: What is "open source" software?
A: Open source software, in most cases, is completely free and released with the full source-code so that other's can contribute by adding new features or make needed corrections to the program.

Q: What is abandonware?
A: Abandonware is software that has been abandoned by the author who has either lost interest in it or has decided that it was'nt worth finishing for any number of reasons (ie; stiff competition, not profitable, etc).

Q: What is adware?
A: Adware is free software that usually contains built-in advertisements. Companies pay the author for ad space within their software and this makes it possible for the author of the program to make it available at no cost to you.

Q: What type of software do you list here?
A: We list software for the Win95, Win98, WinME, WinXP, WinNT, Win2000, MacOS, Linux & PalmOS platforms. You are welcome to use the manual or PAD submission form to submit a listing. We also offer Premium Listings as well as a Full Review Service to further enhance your software's exposure.

Q: How do I download software from this site?
A: Easy. To download any program from this site, simply select a category (and in some cases, a subcategory) from the side-menu and click on a download link in the software listing of your choice. Then, when the download screen appears, choose a folder on your hard drive where you wish to store the program and click "ok". That's it.

Q: Do you check each program for viruses?
A:  No. Since we don't actually store any of the programs on this site, this is something that you will need to do yourself.

Q: I tried to download a program and the link was dead. What now?
A: We make every attempt to keep our listings up to date. However, if you do happen to discover a dead link, you can go the the software listing where you discovered it, and under the screenshot, click on "Dead". This will automatically send us an email and we will investigate.

Q: I found a bug in one of the programs. What do I do?
A: You can go to the homepage of the program and notify the author who will, no doubt,  be very greatful that you took the time to report it.

Q: Is a bug the same as a virus?
A: No. A virus is a piece of malicious code intentionally written to inflict damage to your computer. A "bug", on the other hand is simply a programming error within the software and is completely harmless.

Q: I'm an author. How do I submit a program?
A: If you are an author and wish to submit a program simply click here.

Q: How long does it take for my software to be listed?
A: All software submissions, user opinion postings, etc can be added, updated and administered by registered users dynamically and in real-time which means that your listing will appear in the database immediately. Once you register (quick and painless), you will have full control over your listing and access to it 24/7. There are a wealth of features just waiting for you!.

Q: How do I obtain information regarding advertising on this site?
A: We value our sponsors and our rates are very affordable. To obtain more information, please go here.

Q: I don't see an answer to my question here. What should I do?
A: This FAQ was designed to answer general questions you may have concerning this site. If you have any question(s) not included here, please contact us and we will do our best to get back to you promptly.