Free is a four-letter word.

Unlike those four-letter words that get printed with asterisks, it can be written boldly in printed advertisements.

Often, though, when it comes to free computer programs, you get what you pay for. Some are well-intentioned but awful. Others are worse than that. Viruses and spyware can come as hidden baggage on programs advertised as free on the Web.

For the complete article, please pick up a copy of The Daily Reflector or purchase today’s electronic edition at http://www.reflector.com/circ-store. Current home delivery and electronic edition subscribers may log in to access this article at no charge. To become a subscriber, please click here or contact Customer Service at (252) 329-9505.