To ensure the best and most user-friendly downloading experience, we have set specific guidelines for the software we accept and the standards developers need to follow. Our policies are designed to adapt as software evolves, so they may be updated at any time.
Security, Privacy, and Control
Malware Protection: Make sure your software is free from viruses, Trojans, adware, spyware, or any other harmful elements.
EULA and Installation Prompts: Provide a clear and readable End-User License Agreement (EULA) and uninstallation instructions. Users should be able to cancel the installation if they do not agree to the terms.
Software Bundling: Disclose any additional programs or third-party items included with your software during installation. Users must be given a straightforward option to opt out of these items.
Removal and Uninstallation: Include clear instructions on how to uninstall and remove your product.
Quality and Content
Software Quality: Ensure your product meets high industry standards. Do not submit products that do not meet these standards.
Prohibited Software:
- Casino, gambling, or betting software involving real wagering.
- Pornography-related applications or those with graphic nudity.
- Hacking or spamming tools, including email extractors and bulk mailers.
- Tools for manipulating search engines or creating doorway pages.
- Software that enables cheating in online games.
- Software for copying encrypted commercial DVDs.
- PC-monitoring apps with remote-install capabilities.
- Illegal software or products linked to inappropriate, offensive, or explicit content.
- Programs that install ad-injection proxies, alter root certificates, or interfere with server communication.
Product Information
Submission Instructions: Follow the guidelines on the Download.com Developer Submission portal for a successful product submission.
Copyright and Trademark: For any complaints, follow the instructions in our terms of use.
Download Links: Provide direct links that start the file download immediately.
Product Usability: Your software should be a working demo. We only accept free or functional trial versions that let users fully experience the software. Slideshows and self-running demos are not acceptable.
Data Integrity: Do not manipulate download counts or user ratings. You can link to product pages on our site using approved buttons or badges, but you cannot submit your own reviews or solicit others to do so.
Duplicate Listings: Avoid creating multiple listings for the same product. Identical or similar listings may be removed or suspended.
Product Updates: New versions of a product can appear in the new releases list up to twice a month, subject to staff verification. New product sets should be listed as new products, not as updates to existing ones.
Use of Logos and Trademarks: Do not use Download.com logos, trademarks, or other copyrighted material without permission. You may only use approved Download buttons or badges with our written consent.
Customer Service and Business Practices
- User Satisfaction: We encourage publishers to provide excellent customer service. We may remove products or developers if we receive significant negative feedback or if users are not getting adequate support.