One extremely popular aspect of the Internet is the ability to download freeware or shareware programs and try them out. Of course, you need to be careful and download only at reputable sites. Let's see what we can find.

One of my favorite places to download is Jumbo. The site is easy to navigate, and it even provides you with Starter Kits that explain how to download and set up your new programs. So what can you find at Jumbo? What *can't* you find at Jumbo? You'll find software in categories such as business, games, desktop publishing, hobbies, and utilities.

Another site that offers shareware/freeware programs in a wide variety of categories is the SlaughterHouse. Click on New Software to learn about the latest entries to the site, or click on their Pick of the Day to see what they recommend. I ran a search on 'sports' and found 20 different sports-related software programs, including demo versions of Trophy Bass for Win 95 and Baseball Pro '98.

Shareware.com, which contains over 250,000 files, is a superb site for downloading programs. Search by platform, category, or even the top downloads. Learn what's new or what's hot.

For Internet applications and programs, you can't beat Stroud's. They even rate their software programs and provide a detailed review of them, so you have a better idea of what you're getting.

Another excellent site that offers Internet software is Tucows. The site features software for Win95/98, Win NT, Win 3.x, Macintosh, and even OS/2.

If you'd rather have "two dogs" instead of "two cows," visit Tudogs: Free Software. The site reviews and grades free software, graphics, and services. Categories include education, health, music, and travel.

At Dr. Download, you'll learn what the site's author feels is the "best" in each category, thus saving you the aggravation of downloading something, then discovering that it's not the greatest. The site offers games, utilities, and audio/video programs.

If you enjoy playing games, visit GameCenter.com. Not only can you download shareware, freeware, or demo versions of hundreds of games, but you'll also find game cheats, tips and tricks, and even game reviews.

The ZDNet Software Library offers a section on downloading top-rated shareware, freeware, and demos. Learn what the top downloads are for 98, or look through their hard disk collection of programs to get your PC running the way it should.

Robin Nobles is a freelance writer who can be reached at robinnobles@robinsnest.com.

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