It's not uncommon for software to cost more than the hardware of the computer it is installed on. In fact with hardware prices falling, it will soon become a trend for the software on a computer to cost more than the hardware. The problem with using freeware software and open source operating systems is that they do not support main stream products like Photoshop or Microsoft Office. Although some corporations have started using open source operating systems to reduce operating costs of their organizations, the problem is that open source software is no where as friendly as commercial software. A good example is Linux, although Linux is free to use but the dominance of Windows is undeniable because of its ease of use and the wide variety of software Windows supports.
If you are looking to buy software for less one option is to visit sites like www.wehavesoftware.com, such sites allows users to download softcopies of all major operating systems and software at much lower prices. Many people believe that such sites are illegal and they are infringing on copyright laws, the truth is that such sites are giving people access to software at much cheaper costs. In fact one of the biggest reasons that Linux was developed was because the developer felt that Windows was over priced.
If you are looking to download software online, then there are a couple of things to keep in mind before you download any software from the internet. The first thing to understand is that there is a very thin line between piracy and downloading backup copies of the software. It is not the site's responsibility but your responsibility to use the software judiciously. If you are still not sure if what you are doing is legal or not, don't worry just read the terms and conditions page on the site and you will understand exactly if actions are legal or not.
Also once you download any software make sure that the software is scanned using a virus scanner. There are also sites that offer downloading of software for free (termed as warez), however more often that not such software is buggy and has many legal implications. You are better of paying for the software and downloading it then trying to visit sites that are offering software illegally.
Also remember that distributing the software once you have downloaded it is illegal, irrespective of the nature of your terms and conditions with the site you have downloaded the software from. If you are concerned about the legal implications of downloading software remember that cyber law in the US is much more developed than most countries. The chances are that the site you are dealing with has probably been scrutinized to see if it meets legal requirements.
Finally make sure that you check to see if the software you are downloading is compatible with the hardware and operating system you have installed. Since the transaction is purely electronic once you have paid for the software the chances of getting a refund are slim.
Advantages of downloading software
The advantage of downloading software online is that it is faster than going to a software store and buying the software. Also as mentioned earlier in the article, the price of softcopy software is much lower than ordering the software on hard copy via the authorized reseller. Software today is pretty stable; you should not have any trouble with customer services and support. However if you are worried about any support issues, then it is always a good idea to buy a hard copy of the software along with a license so that you get full after sales technical support. Not to mention you will also get access to offers and cheaper upgrades. But all said and done downloading software is the faster, cheaper and most convenient way of getting access to software.