Protection

[sad old git]

Maybe a stupid question but I need to know....There are many free virus protection programs around such as a.v.g. malware etc. If these progs are free how do they make their money?

[snags]

The free editions promote the professional editions, which have more features. Also:

http://hnaser.blogspo...s-softwares-make.html

[VHG]

They are generally "loss leaders" in the hope that by giving away a small free component you then buy a full featured one from them. Bit like companies who give away free products (drink, crisps etc) in your local town square hoping you then buy it in the future).

Also by having a free version you gets LOADS of free avertising from ordinairy people who promote the free versions on forums like these (how many time have you seen people say "I use AVG" or whatever, which is good advertising).

Finally, by having the free version on your PC you are giving them the chance to "pop up" a window now and again asking if you would like the paid for version.

One extra benefit of having a free version is that if a person has YOUR free version on their computer they dont have one of the competitors versions, giving you more market share.

[AlBags]

Advertising .. generate good reputation for company .. etc etc

[sad old git]

Thank you for your answers folks; much appreciated.

[dabees]

There is another reason according to a friend whom works for a major AV company. Inexperienced users tend to rely on free AV programs but still seem to get Viruses and malware etc.

They get feedback from those users via the freeware and it helps improve the overall product.