Freeware Download Sites Without Crapware - Safe Downloads
Addressing Crapware on Freeware Download Sites
Over a year ago, we highlighted the problematic practice of bundling unwanted software – often termed “crapware” – with downloads from major freeware platforms, notably including SourceForge.
Positive changes have been observed since then, with some websites, including SourceForge itself, initiating efforts to improve their offerings.
Persistent Issues with Freeware Downloads
Despite these improvements, the majority of freeware download sites continue to employ questionable methods.
These tactics involve integrating unwanted programs and deceptive advertisements into installers, primarily for financial gain.
Recognizing Positive Changes
As certain platforms demonstrate a commitment to rectifying these issues, it’s important to acknowledge their progress.
This article serves as a continually updated resource, identifying websites that have taken steps to provide a cleaner download experience.
Ongoing monitoring will ensure this list remains current and reflects the evolving landscape of freeware distribution.
Further Reading
For a deeper understanding of the risks associated with popular download sources, consider reviewing our report on the implications of installing the top 10 applications from Download.com.
SourceForge Under New Management: A Return to Reliability
In late January 2016, SourceForge transitioned to new ownership under the company BIZX, LLC.
The new management promptly initiated a significant overhaul of the platform.
This included the discontinuation of the contentious "DevShare" program.
The DevShare program had previously been criticized for bundling open-source installers with unwanted software, often without developer consent.
Addressing Past Controversies
According to an official statement, the aim is to re-establish SourceForge as a dependable repository for open-source software.
The company emphasized a commitment to ethical practices over maximizing immediate financial gains.
They stated, “Our priority is to regain trust as a reliable platform for open-source projects, and this action represents a crucial initial step.”
Improved Download Experience
SourceForge now appears to be a secure location for obtaining open-source software.
A second major issue – deceptive "Download" buttons redirecting users to third-party sites offering bundled installers – has also seen improvement.
Recent observations indicate a noticeable absence of these misleading advertisements on the updated SourceForge platform.
Key Improvements Summarized
- Termination of the DevShare program.
- Removal of bundled junkware from installers.
- Elimination of misleading download button redirects.
These changes signal a positive shift for SourceForge and its user base.
The platform is actively working to rebuild its reputation within the open-source community.
Users can now more confidently download software from SourceForge.
Tucows Shifts its Approach
Tucows, a long-standing provider of freeware downloads, previously engaged in the practice of bundling unwanted software – often referred to as junkware – with its installers. A prior assessment of numerous download platforms identified Tucows as particularly problematic, even surpassing Download.com in its negative practices.
However, on May 3, 2016, Tucows publicly declared a change in policy. The company announced it would cease the inclusion of such unwanted software within its downloads.
Beyond Software Downloads
It’s important to note that Tucows’ business extends beyond simply offering software downloads. The company also generates revenue through the sale of domain names, mobile phone services, and fiber optic internet access.
Michael Goldstein of Tucows explained the reasoning behind the shift. He stated that while the revenue from bundled software was initially tempting, the company’s substantial growth in customer-centric subscription services made continuing the practice no longer justifiable.
A Commitment to User Experience
Tucows considered completely shutting down the download site. Ultimately, they opted to maintain it as a public service, allocating only limited resources to its operation. This decision reflects a commitment to providing a cleaner, more user-friendly experience.
Currently, Tucows no longer distributes junkware. Instead, the site features minimal advertising for other Tucows offerings, such as domain registration services.
Download.com Discontinues Its Installer Program
Previously, Download.com utilized a program known as the "CNET Installer." This practice has now been discontinued as of early 2016, though the change wasn't publicly communicated.
Direct Downloads Now Available
Users can now access Download.com and obtain direct download links for software. This eliminates the inclusion of unwanted or unnecessary junkware with downloads.
Areas for Continued Improvement
While a significant step forward, Download.com still has opportunities for refinement. Improvements could be made to their advertising practices.
Specifically, the site should address misleading advertisements. These include green "Download" buttons designed to trick users into initiating unintended downloads.
Recognition for Positive Change
Despite remaining areas for improvement, Download.com is due recognition for the removal of its widely disliked installer. This change represents a positive shift for users seeking software downloads.
Download.com’s decision to abandon the installer is a welcome development for those prioritizing clean software acquisition.
FossHub and Ninite Continue to Excel
Alongside other considerations, it’s important to recognize several superior freeware download platforms that have consistently prioritized their users.
FossHub stands out as a reliable download source, attracting numerous projects after they departed from SourceForge. It functions as a hosting site specifically for free and open-source software – often referred to as “FOSS”. Critically, FossHub has maintained a policy of never including unwanted software with its downloads. Download pages feature a single, non-intrusive advertisement to support operational costs; nothing more. Therefore, FossHub remains a site deserving of trust.
Related: Spread the Word: Ninite is the Only Safe Place to Get Windows Freeware
Ninite also provides a valuable service. It has long been the most secure centralized location for obtaining Windows freeware, and this remains unchanged. Among larger, general freeware download sites, Ninite distinguished itself as the only one refusing to install unwanted programs on user’s computers—though FossHub is limited to open-source software.
Ninite offers a particularly helpful tool for rapidly downloading and installing software on a new computer, and it consistently avoids bundling junkware. Furthermore, Ninite can install software that typically includes developer-added unwanted programs, effectively bypassing those additions. For instance, Java can be installed through Ninite without encountering its usual installer-based junkware.
These are not the only secure locations for software downloads, naturally. Many software projects offer downloads directly from their own websites, and these can be clean. However, a significant number of projects generate revenue by incorporating unwanted software into their downloads.
Related: PUPs Explained: What is a "Potentially Unwanted Program"?
GitHub is generally a safe option—for open-source projects hosted on GitHub, the latest software builds can be downloaded without any bundled junkware. However, GitHub primarily focuses on code hosting, and the download process isn’t as streamlined for users who aren’t developers.
When considering major freeware download sites, FossHub, Ninite, SourceForge, and Tucows appear to be the most user-friendly options. We hope to see more download sites emulate SourceForge and Tucows, but this will require business models that allow for profitability without relying on “potentially unwanted programs.”
Although this list may seem concise at present, we anticipate a continued trend toward cleaner practices. More sites are hopefully prioritizing user experience and integrity. We are committed to maintaining the accuracy of this list, and will add any additional platforms that adopt similar standards. Updates will be provided as they occur.