Download.com is an Internet download directory website, launched in 1996 as a part of CNET.
Download.com offers content in four major categories: Software (including PC, Mac, and mobile), Music, Games, and Videos, offered for download via FTP from Download.com's servers or third-party servers. Videos are streams (at present) and music is all free MP3 downloads, or occasionally rights-managed WMAs or streams.
The Software section includes over 100,000 freeware, shareware, and try-first downloads. Downloads are often rated and reviewed by editors, and also contain a summary of the file from the software publisher, and one or more screenshots. Users may also write reviews and log their ratings on a scale of 1-5 stars.
The domain download.com attracted at least 113 million visitors annually by 2008 according to a Compete.com study.[1]
Downloads free
Downloading all software is free. Some software titles are trial versions; many are freeware and shareware. All music downloads and video streams are free. There is no charge by Download.com to access any content on the site.
Software publishers are permitted to distribute their titles for free via CNET's Upload.com site, or for a fee structure that offers enhancements.
In 2004, Download.com Music was launched to replace the defunct MP3.com. One may download music in a variety of genres for free from this area of the site, and the artists range from amateurs to professionals. Artists may upload their information and songs to the site for free. All submissions go through a review process.
In July 2005, Download.com Video was launched with streaming video content in a variety of genres (Movies & TV, Sports, Animation, Music Videos, etc.). Download.com plans to offer downloadable videos in future.
Security, adware, and spyware
Scott Arpajian, then-senior vice president of CNET Download.com, announced in April 2005 that they were launching a "zero tolerance" policy toward all software bundled with adware. Download.com had previously banned spyware products.
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