Freeware is software that you can download and use without ever paying a dime. This software is sometimes developed by kind hearted souls who create software for the simple joy of creating it. You can download it and try it out. This fee is usually minimal. Sometimes all the developer asks in return for the software is an email from you proclaiming how much you've enjoyed using it.
Most commercial software goes through a series of improvements, or Updates .
Version 4.0 is released and shortly afterwards updated to 4.1, then 4.2, and so forth. Most of these updates are free to download from the developers home page. It's a good idea to periodically check and see if your software has been updated. Always download software from reputable websites such as thoses listed below. CNET's guide to shareware on the Net.