What's worse than learning computer terminology? Trying to buy software without it. Software licensing has nothing to do with "soft". It's hard.

When purchasing computer programs, what must you pay for? What software is free? Are there hidden charges? Software sold on shelves is easy to understand: Just give someone money, and you now own a copy of "Tapdancing Teddy's Talking Typing Tutor".

Downloading software online "for free" is different. Often, websites will define their software using the terms below, but aren't helpful with details. Rest easy and don't worry about the software police coming to knock on your computer. These definitions will help you download software in the way it was intended, and give you a good understanding of common software sales terminology.

Shareware: Try it for free. Buy it only if you decide to keep using it. Some shareware "times out" after a certain period, forcing users to pay for the program or remove it. Shareware quality is usually pretty good, as the designer is trying to make a profit based on the program quality.

Crippleware, trialware or demoware: This software is limited in significant ways, while still allowing you a taste of the full-blown software. If you want full functionality, you must buy the full version. Quality is usually high, as these are often trial versions of commercial software.

Nagware: Continually annoying you with ads, countdown timers, "register now" pop-up windows and similar tactics, nagware assumes you'll purchase a nag-free version in order to regain sanity.

Adware: Software that pays for itself by showing you ads. Often seen skipping hand-in-hand with spyware (thanks SO much, you unnamed unethical ad agencies), it's best avoided.

Spyware: Rarely admitted by the distributor, spyware is a hidden component of "free" software. It may monitor what you do and type on your PC and the Internet, with results sent covertly to someone else. Makes we want to add a few layers to my tin foil hat. Or just make sure you have good antispyware software installed.

Warez: Stickin' it to the man, "warez" is a catch-all phrase usually meaning commercial software distributed illegally for free. Stay away, as not only are warez quite illegal, but warez distribution sites contain higher-than-usual instances of viruses, spyware and adult content.

Freeware: Just what it says. Free. Public domain. No strings attached. Download and use with no restrictions.

Looking for computer software is like looking around a bookstore. We're just wandering through the shelves, and all media has different prices for reading, browsing and owning. From paperbacks to hardcovers, magazines, newspapers, and the weird guy muttering to himself over by the drinking fountains: Just know what you need, how much it costs, and you're set. And stay away from the weird guy.