How to Publish Shareware Software

For software developers with new ideas and applications, publishing shareware is a marketing method. Websites allow programmers to publish shareware versions of applications, so the product gets exposure and consumers get a chance to sample the software. Shareware is a type of application that has limitations until the user decides to pay for the software. For instance, you may include a time limitation where users are only able to run the software for 30 days. Once the shareware is created, there are several options for publishing.

Instructions

1. Upload the executable install files on an FTP site or place where users can download the file. This is important for publishing, since most websites require a link to the executable. The most popular format is placing the executable files in a zip archive. The best place to upload a file is your own domain server. If you don't host your own domain, sites like mediafire.com have available space for free.

2. Upload the software to pay sites like cnet.com. Cnet.com has had its shareware store opened for several years. Cnet has multiple pricing benefits, and it also hosts its service for free for minimal exposure. Cnet requires a location for users to download shareware, which is provided by completing Step 1. A list of price comparisons between hosting cost and benefits is located here: upload.cnet.com/4370-21_5-499-115.html?tag=contentMain;contentBody

3. Create your own web page to market the product. Some shareware programmers prefer to market their products by creating a website. This gives you better control of file prices, version changes and customer updates. It also allows you to create a customer mailing list to keep in contact with consumers.

4. Upload the shareware to a completely free website. For smaller software applications with few marketing dollars, free shareware sites are available. These sites allow programmers to upload files and make them available from the free shareware site. This is not as advantageous, since most of these sites are unstable in terms of longevity on the web.

5. Ask for reviews. Several bloggers and online content sites post reviews of shareware software. Find bloggers with an interest in your product, and give them a copy of it for free. In exchange, ask for an honest review. This marketing concept increases the shareware popularity and visibility on the web.

References

• CNET.com