20 Safest Free Software Download Sites in 2024 (2024)

Downloading software has become an essential part of our daily lives. Whether we need a new app for our phones, a useful program for our computers, or a special tool for work, finding trustworthy places to download software is very important. However, with so many websites, figuring out which ones are legal and safe to use can be difficult.

In this blog post, we will guide you through the best software download sites in 2024, including free software download sites and sites offering both free and paid software options. After careful research, we have identified the top 20 sites that offer a wide variety of software solutions while ensuring they are secure, user-friendly, and legal. We are strongly against using sites that offer cracked software downloads, as these are illegal and can put your security at risk.

Let's get started and explore the top 20 software downloading sites for 2024, where you can find legal and reliable software options for all your needs. Stay tuned as we reveal the best sources, ensuring a safe and smooth experience.

Table of content

In this section, we will analyze the top 20 software download websites in 2024. These websites have been carefully selected based on their reliability, wide range of software options, and prioritization of user safety and security. Let's take a closer look at some of the key features and offerings of these websites:

1. Google Play store

The Google Play Store is an online digital distribution platform owned and operated by Google. It serves as the official app store for Android smartphones, tablets, and other certified Android devices. The Play Store offers a massive collection of applications, games, movies, TV shows, books, music, and more. With over 3.95 million apps spanning across 50+ categories like games, education, business tools, productivity, lifestyle, and entertainment, it caters to a wide range of interests and needs. The Play Store provides a secure and trusted environment to browse, download, and purchase content. It seamlessly integrates with other Google services, allowing users to access their purchased apps, media, and content across multiple Android devices effortlessly.



Key Features:

• Extensive app catalog with over 3.95 million apps across 50+ categories
• Secure and safe platform for app downloads and purchases
• Integrated with Google services like Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Play Games
• Offers movies, TV shows, books, and music in addition to apps
• Regular updates and curated collections for easy app discovery

Pros and Cons

The Microsoft Store is an online marketplace created and managed by Microsoft. It serves as a digital hub where Windows users can download and buy a wide variety of software, apps, games, movies, and TV shows. Whether you access it through the Windows app or the web browser, the Microsoft Store offers a massive library of content organized across over 30 categories like Office tools, games, streaming services, design software, and developer tools. With frequent updates and expertly curated collections, the store aims to cater to diverse user interests and needs while delivering a seamless experience on multiple devices.

Key Features:

• Offers software applications, games, movies, and TV shows across 30+ categories
• Available as a built-in app on Windows and as a web app
• Integrated with Microsoft accounts for seamless access across devices
• Regular updates and curated collections for content discovery
• User-friendly interface for browsing and purchasing content

Pros and Cons

Steam is a digital distribution service and storefront developed by Valve Corporation, primarily focused on video games. Launched in 2003 as a software client for automatic game updates, Steam has since evolved into a comprehensive platform offering nearly 30,000 games from various publishers and developers. In addition to game distribution, Steam provides features like server matchmaking, anti-cheat measures, social networking, game streaming, and cloud storage for game progress. The Steam client also includes community features such as direct messaging, in-game overlays, and a virtual marketplace for collectibles, catering to the needs of gamers worldwide.

Key Features:

• Offers nearly 30,000 games across various genres and publishers
• Provides features like matchmaking, anti-cheat, social networking, and game streaming
• Cloud storage for game progress and achievements
• Community features like messaging, in-game overlays, and virtual collectible marketplace
• Automatic game updates and patching through the Steam client.

Pros and Cons

SourceForge is a leading platform dedicated to hosting and distributing open-source software. It offers a vast repository of free software, making it a go-to choice for developers and enthusiasts alike. With over 500,000 projects available, SourceForge covers a wide range of categories, including development tools, business applications, educational software, games, and more. The platform fosters a strong community engagement, allowing users to leave reviews and ratings for software applications, helping others make informed decisions. SourceForge also provides a variety of developer tools, encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing among programmers and software enthusiasts.

Key Features

• Extensive software library with over 500,000 open-source projects
• User reviews and ratings for software applications
• Developer tools for building and enhancing software projects
• Community engagement and collaboration features
• Wide range of software categories, including development tools, business apps, education, and games

Pros and Cons

itch.io is a platform designed for hosting, selling, and downloading indie video games, indie role-playing games, game assets, comics, zines, and music. Launched in 2013, itch.io has become a hub for over 800,000 products created by independent developers and artists. The platform offers a significant amount of freedom to developers, making it an ideal platform for new game developers and tabletop RPG creators to practice their craft, publicize their work, and start earning money. itch.io encourages collaboration and mutual support among developers by allowing them to host game jams and sell their products together in "bundles."

Key Features

• Extensive software library with over 500,000 open-source projects
• User reviews and ratings for software applications
• Developer tools for building and enhancing software projects
• Community engagement and collaboration features
• Wide range of software categories, including development tools, business apps, education, and games

Pros and Cons

CNET Download is a popular software download website that offers a huge collection of both free and paid software across various categories. With over 1 million software titles available, the platform provides a diverse selection of applications for games, education, business, tools, and more than 50 additional categories. CNET Download's user-friendly interface and comprehensive software descriptions make it an accessible choice for users seeking reliable software options. The website prioritizes user safety by scanning files for malware before making them available for download, ensuring a secure environment for software acquisition.

Key Features

• Offers over 1 million software titles across 50+ categories
• User-friendly interface for easy navigation and software discovery
• Complete software descriptions to aid in decision-making
• Safety measures in place, including malware scanning of files
• Provides both free and paid software options

Pros and Cons

Ubuntu is a popular Linux distribution based on Debian and composed primarily of free and open-source software. Developed by Canonical and a community of contributors, Ubuntu is officially released in multiple editions for desktops, servers, cloud computing, and Internet of Things devices. With over 59,000 packages available, Ubuntu offers a wide range of software across categories like system utilities, development tools, education software, server software, games, and more than 20 additional categories. Ubuntu's commitment to regular releases, long-term support, and a meritocratic governance model has made it a widely adopted Linux distribution.

Key Features

• Offers over 59,000 software packages across 20+ categories
• Available in multiple editions for desktops, servers, cloud, and IoT devices
• Regular releases every six months, with long-term support versions every two years
• Backed by a large online community and support from Canonical
• Composed primarily of free and open-source software

Pros and Cons

Softonic is a long-standing software download platform that has been operating since 1996, initially as a file-oriented download service called Shareware Intercom. Over the years, Softonic has evolved into a comprehensive website offering a huge collection of software across various categories, including games, education tools, business software, and utilities. With over 576,000 software titles available, Softonic caters to users across multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. The website provides clear software descriptions, user reviews, and employs rigorous testing and scanning processes to ensure safe downloads, prioritizing user safety and satisfaction.

Key Features

• Library of over 576,000 software titles across 30+ categories
• Software availability for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS platforms
• Detailed software descriptions with system requirements and screenshots
• User reviews and ratings to assist in decision-making
• Advanced search filters and category browsing for easy software discovery
• Editor's picks and curated collections for popular and trending software
• Automatic updates and version tracking for installed software
• Community forums and knowledge base for software support

Pros and Cons

Softpedia, based in Romania, is a software and tech news website that indexes, reviews, and hosts downloadable software while also reporting on technology and science topics. It’s considered one of the highest-visited Windows software download sites due to its extensive collection. The site updates popular Windows apps regularly for users.

Key Features

• Wide range of software categories to scout.
• User ratings and reviews to evaluate software.
• Clean UI for scouting software library.
• Malware-free safe download.
• Reviews written by its staff.
• Products are organized in categories which visitors can sort according to most recent updates, number of downloads, or rating.
• Free software and commercial software (and their free trials) can also be listed separately.
• Displays virtual awards for products free of adware, spyware, and commercial tie-ins.
• Products that include these unrelated and/or unanticipated components and offers (which are known as potentially unwanted programs) are marked as such.

Pros and Cons

Software Informer is a unique tool that provides users with the latest information on their desired computer programs. It ensures that the software you’re using is always up-to-date by performing necessary updates automatically. Additionally, it allows users to download and install updates directly from Software Informer, making it a convenient platform for maintaining and enhancing your software library.

Key Features

• Provides up-to-date information on computer programs.
• Performs automatic updates.
• Allows downloading and installing updates directly from Software Informer.
• Constantly runs in the background, checking for updates.
• Helps users select software that meets their needs.

Pros and Cons

Uptodown is a marketplace focused on distributing desktop software and mobile applications. Created on December 20, 2002, and based in Málaga, Spain, it boasts a huge library of more than 1 million applications for various platforms. These applications are divided into thematic categories and hosted on their own servers. It serves more than 130 million users per month and has 450 million monthly downloads. Uptodown’s website is available in seventeen languages and offers localized content for each of them. It provides free downloads of any program in an easy-to-navigate environment. It uses the services of VirusTotal to review the results of more than 70 antiviruses.

In addition, Uptodown is a completely open app store without any regional or country-specific restrictions. You don’t need to go through any sign-up processes or subscriptions here. In fact, you don’t even need a Google Play account.

Key Features

• More than 1 million applications for various platforms.
• User reviews and opinions.
• Available in seventeen languages.
• Free downloads of any program.
• Uses VirusTotal services for antivirus checks.
• No regional or country-specific restrictions.
• Allows app downloads and APK installs from their own servers.
• Detects XAPK files with additional OBB data.
• Allows backups for any apps you download.

Pros and Cons

Humble Bundle, Inc. is a digital storefront for video games, which grew out of its original offering of Humble Bundles. These are collections of games sold at a price determined by the purchaser, with a portion of the price going towards charity and the rest split between the game developers. Humble Bundle continues to offer these limited-time bundles, but have expanded to include a greater and more persistent storefront. The Humble Bundle concept was initially run by Wolfire Games in 2010, but by its second bundle, the Humble Bundle company was spun out to manage the promotion, payments, and distribution of the bundles. In October 2017, the company was acquired by Ziff Davis through its IGN Entertainment subsidiary.

Key Features

• More than 1 million applications for various platforms.
• User reviews and opinions.
• Available in seventeen languages.
• Free downloads of any program.
• Uses VirusTotal services for antivirus checks.
• No regional or country-specific restrictions.
• Allows app downloads and APK installs from their own servers.
• Detects XAPK files with additional OBB data.
• Allows backups for any apps you download.

Pros and Cons

FileHippo is a digital platform that specializes in offering computer software for Windows. Established on the internet, it has grown to house a huge library of applications for various platforms. These applications are neatly categorized and hosted on FileHippo’s own servers, making it easy for users to find what they’re looking for. Serving millions of users per month, FileHippo has become a go-to destination for software downloads. The website is multilingual, covers a global audience with localized content. File hippo provides free downloads of any program in a user-friendly environment and ensures the safety of the downloads with the help of various antivirus software.

Key Features

• Extensive collection of software for Windows, and other devices.
• Categorized listing of programs for easy navigation.
• Sections highlighting most recently updated programs and popular downloads.
• Detailed program information and direct download links.
• No registration required for accessing and downloading software.
• Funded by user donations and third-party advertising (prior to acquisition).
• Formerly offered an "Update Checker" (later renamed "App Manager") to scan for outdated software and suggest updates.

Pros and Cons

MajorGeeks is a website where you can download software for Windows. It has an old design from the 90s, but it is trustworthy. The vintage look may seem outdated, but MajorGeeks is dedicated to providing an excellent software downloading experience.

MajorGeeks has a huge collection of programs and apps to choose from. Whether you want a popular program or a specialized one for a specific task, you'll find it here. The best thing is that MajorGeeks prioritizes your safety. They ensure that every download is free from malware and viruses, so you can install software without worrying about harming your device.

Key Features

• MajorGeeks features a clean user interface that makes it easy for users to search for free software.
• The website provides detailed specifications of software versions, helping users make informed decisions.
• MajorGeeks ensures a clean and safe download process, protecting users from potential security threats.
• MajorGeeks has a strong community engagement, with users actively reviewing and rating the software.

Pros and Cons

NCH Software is a digital platform that specializes in offering software programs for audio, video, business, dictation and transcription, graphics, telephony and other utilities. Established on the internet, it has grown to house a huge library of applications for various platforms. These applications are neatly categorized and hosted on NCH Software’s own servers, making it easy for users to find what they’re looking for. Serving millions of users per month, NCH Software has become a go-to destination for software downloads. The website is multilingual, covers a global audience with localized content.

Key Features

• Extensive collection of software for audio, video, business, dictation and transcription, graphics, telephony and other utilities.
• Categorized listing of programs for easy navigation.
• Detailed program information and direct download links.
• No registration required for accessing and downloading software.

Pros and Cons

Ninite streamlines the software installation process for Windows users. Forget the tedious task of downloading and installing each program individually. Ninite creates a custom package that bundles your chosen applications together.

Here's the process: Browse a curated list of popular programs on the Ninite website. Select the desired programs by ticking the corresponding boxes. Click "Get Your Ninite" to download a custom installer. Run the downloaded installer, and Ninite takes care of the rest, installing your chosen programs quietly in the background.

Ninite is renowned for its user-friendliness and focus on security. It automatically avoids toolbars, adware, and malware during installation, guaranteeing a safe and clean experience. The website itself boasts a clean and simple interface, making it easy to find the software you need and navigate the selection process.

Key Features

• Download and install multiple programs with a single click, saving you significant time and effort.
• The user-friendly website allows for easy browsing and selection of desired software.
• Ninite prioritizes security by automatically declining toolbars, adware, and malware during installation.
• The installation process runs quietly in the background, without interrupting your workflow.
• Ninite can keep your installed programs up-to-date, although you have control over when these updates occur.
• Top searched software enlisted on the homepage.

Pros and Cons

FossHub is a user-friendly website and platform that has become a go-to destination for downloading free software and games across multiple operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux. The platform's appeal lies in its dedication to providing an easy and secure downloading experience.

FossHub distinguishes itself by offering fast and reliable downloads, free from the annoyances of pop-ups, bundled software, or any other unwanted surprises that often plague other download sites. Safety and integrity are at the forefront of FossHub's mission, ensuring that every file downloaded from the platform is thoroughly vetted and guaranteed to be free from malware or any form of additional bundled software. This level of security and transparency has earned FossHub a loyal following among users seeking a trustworthy source for open-source software downloads.

Key Features

• Prioritizes safety by ensuring malware-free downloads.
• Focused on free and open-source software (FOSS).
• User-friendly interface with clear categories and search.
• Fast downloads via high-speed servers worldwide.
• Direct download links, no further redirection, no waiting time, etc.

Pros and Cons

Giveaway of the Day is a cool site where you can get software for free, stuff that usually costs money. Each day, there's a new program up for grabs. It's a fun way to check out different kinds of software, like games or tools to help with your work, without having to pay.

But there's a little catch. You've only got 24 hours to download the software, and it doesn't come with updates or help if you run into problems. Also, you might not be allowed to use it for business stuff. So, while it's exciting to get free software, make sure it's something you really want or need.

Key Features

• GOTD offers a new commercially licensed software title for free download every day, specifically for Windows and occasionally for Mac users.
• GOTD functions as a platform for exploring a diverse range of software titles, potentially introducing users to new programs they might find valuable.
• For users willing to accept the limitations, GOTD presents an opportunity to acquire commercially licensed software at no initial cost.

Pros and Cons

FileHorse is a website to download free software for Windows and Mac. It focuses on providing popular and useful programs that have been carefully selected. The website has a simple layout that makes finding and downloading software easy.

Each program listing on FileHorse includes detailed information to help users understand what they are downloading. This includes screenshots, details on compatible systems, notes on updates, and links to previous versions. FileHorse aims to offer quality over quantity, providing an efficient way for Windows and Mac users to get reliable, essential programs, even if the selection is limited.

Key Features

• FileHorse carefully curated useful, high-performing software for easy discovery.
• The simple website makes finding and downloading programs easy.
• Covers Windows, Mac, and latest web applications.
• Daily updates with new versions, icons, screenshots, and features.
• Archives of old versions if you don't like the latest.
• Optimized pages for faster browsing.
• Fast downloads from dedicated servers with resume support.

Pros and Cons

LO4D.com stands as a secure place for software downloads, created to tackle the widespread problem of malware-infected downloads across major platforms. This site carefully tests each software for viruses and spyware, ensuring a safe and clean download experience. Its existence stems from the need to provide a dependable source for downloading software, free from the dangers commonly associated with many other download sites.

Initially part of a larger review site, LO4D.com emerged when it became evident that a dedicated service was crucial to uphold the standards of trust, safety, and reliability in software downloads. Thus, LO4D.com was established dedicated to offering thoroughly vetted software to its users. This platform prioritizes security to those seeking reliable software solutions.

Key Features

• Complete virus and malware testing for all software.
• A commitment to user safety and the reliability of downloads.
• A clean, user-friendly interface free from unwanted software enhancements.

Pros & Cons

How to build a software distribution platform with Appy Pie

Appy Pie’s website builder is not only the simplest of the lot but also allows you to add features that are sure to increase your audience reach beyond your limits. Now you can make a software distribution website within minutes with Appy Pie’s website builder which is designed for non-tech savvy people without any coding or technical knowledge.

Whether you are into tech field, developer or non-tech person, our website builder will help you with a great website. The AI feature is the top benefit of this website builder. As it allows you to pick from several hundred of the most useful features available on the platform and add them to your website using a convenient drag-and-drop functionality. You are no longer responsible for the coding of a software downloading website from scratch. This platform offers you an opportunity to develop a software downloading site in just a few minutes. To create a software downloading platform with Appy Pie, follow this structured and detailed guide:

Step 1- Visit the Appy Pie Website Builder

• Search for "Appy Pie website builder" in your preferred search engine and navigate to the platform.

Step 2- Describe Your Website

• Enter a detailed text description of the website you want to build as a prompt.

• Decide on the platform, app categories you want to focus on.

Step 3- Sign Up/Login

• If you already have an account, sign in with your email or mobile number

• If you are new, sign up by providing some basic contact information

Step 4- Analyze the Website Overview

• Appy Pie's Website Builder will generate a basic website layout and overview based on your description.

• Review the mobile and desktop previews.

Step 5- Save and Continue

• Click "Save and Continue" to go to the website builder dashboard.

Step 6- Personalize, Customize and Build Core Features

• Add your logo, color schemes and customize layouts.

• Use the builder to add key features like Categories, user profiles, Review section, library etc.

• Add other features like social sharing, Downloading feature, etc.

Step 7-- Test Your Website

• Customize and edit your website as needed.

• Test the website on multiple browsers for compatibility.

Step 8- Publish Your Website

• Connect your Software website to a domain name of your choice and go online!

Following these steps will guide you in successfully creating and launching your software distribution platform with Appy Pie.

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