Safe strategies for finding legal downloads

These are some simple ways you can quickly, and legally, download music, movies and more.

• Open an account with a website that offers a download service.
• Sites work either by monthly subscriptions, which give you unlimited downloads, or charge you for each purchase.
• Choose a site that securely stores you payment details. Ideally, you'll be asked to provide security details such as a password before any transaction is completed.
• Before playing a purchased file, you may need to download the appropriate software. Your download site or app may have their own. If not, check the site for suggestions.
• Files can be stored on your PC, iPod or MP3 player or, depending on the download site you're using, can be transferred to disc.

• Many programs are available as "freeware."
• Most freeware consists of small programs such as games and anti-virus scanners.
• Compare reviews on several sites before you download.
• Make certain that the item you want is compatible with your computer's operating system.

If you have plenty of free disk space on your PC and a good internet connection, downloading music and video is a convenient, quick and simple process. Just make sure your downloads are legal.