Here are a few tips for updating or purchasing software online.

Know Your Source

The best source for purchasing software online is the developer's website. Certainly there are reliable third party vendor sites from which you can download, but chances are that the developer will have the most recent and sometimes the least expensive purchase price.

While there are risks associated with downloading and installing programs, this is generally a safe activity if you take the proper precautions and download only from known, reputable websites. Having spyware and adware detection software on your system as an additional protection allows you to scan and automatically clean up unwanted spyware. Just as you regularly update your virus scanner, be sure to update this software on a regular basis as well.

Know the System Requirements

Most website vendors provide links to information about the product and system requirements. Although the developers try to explain as much as they can about their software, users often need additional information for making a purchase decision. One of the most important issues is that you need to understand the program's functionality and compatibility with your own system.

If your system does not meet the minimum requirements of the new software, it could create difficulties not only with the new program but also with other software already installed on your system. Areas that should be of concern are your hard drive size, memory, processor type, operating system and video or graphics card and networking requirements. If you cannot determine these specifications from your operating system information, ask your computer consultant.

Research the Product

While the links to product descriptions will highlight the marvels of their software, these information sources do not tell the whole story. You can also read online reviews for assistance, but what works for one person's business may not necessarily work for your business.

The best means of finding out if a product will meet your needs is to test it in real time. Many developers offer a free trial period or a specified number of accesses to allow users to evaluate the product.

If a trial period is offered, take full advantage of this opportunity to test the product. Some offer as many as 30 to 40 days for trials. If the product must be purchased before you download it but includes a "satisfaction or money-back" guarantee, make sure you test the product as soon as you download it, as the offer will expire within a specific time limit.

Another excellent way to find the right product is to research what others in your sector or industry are using. Users will quickly point out what they do not like about a software program, what it does…and more importantly, what it does not do. They will also provide insight into the number of patches that have been required, the frequency of updates, the operating system being used and the quality of the technical support provided by the developer.

The "help" documentation that comes with most programs offers practical assistance for most common questions and problems. However, you should also assess the availability of a user manual and telephone or online technical support.

Buying Online

Websites that have payment capabilities are usually designated as secure websites. These websites are recognized by the "https" before the site address instead of the more familiar "http". Https indicates that the website is secured by SSL (Secure Sockets Layer). Your browser may also display a graphic of a closed lock or a solid key to indicate this security measure. A double click on the key or padlock should bring up the company's security certificate. SSL encrypts the information between your computer and the website's server so the information cannot be read by a third party. Always save or print the purchase confirmation page as a record of the transaction.

Generally, reputable websites operated by well-known companies provide greater assurance that the intended security is operating effectively. If the site does not offer security, it is not advisable to complete the transaction.

Downloading

Downloading the software should be as simple as following the developer's instructions. Read the instructions carefully and complete each section step by step. If possible, print out each page of the instructions to avoid transcription errors. You may be required to provide an e-mail address so that the developer can send you the activation code. Be sure to document the serial number, registration number and password. Keep this file in a safe place, as you will need this information to obtain updates or fixes to the software.

The convenience, speed and reduced cost of purchasing software online all add up to a sound way of improving productivity and the bottom line.