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Share Tech speeds downloads �Streaming� trims time for software By David Preszler Share Tech Inc. is slashing the amount of time it will take computer users to access some software from its Web site, www.rocketdownload.com . The Medford company has begun using "streaming" technology to deliver some of its demonstration and shareware software, cutting out the need for lengthy downloads and installations. The move follows an industry trend toward basing more software applications on the Internet rather than on users� computers. "Software is clearly moving from a PC-based model to an Internet-based model," says Lara Knackstedt, the company�s director of Web development. The technology actually belongs to SoftwareWow.com, a Boston-based company that Share Tech has forged a partnership with. "We believe that SoftwareWow�s technology will revolutionize the way people use software," Knackstedt says. While downloads of full programs can take as long as two hours, the streaming technology allows people to begin using the program within minutes, says Share Tech�s Nick Smith. Users do need to download a "player" program similar to media players such as Real Player needed to hear streaming audio or video files. But users need only download the 500-kilobyte player once. The streaming capabilities came online Tuesday. More than 100 shareware or demo programs are available, including practical programs such as word processors and spreadsheet programs as well as entertainment programs such as board games and puzzles. The streaming technology works with any Internet connection and the program itself isn�t stored on the user�s computer, though files created by the program � such as word-processing documents � are. The technology also removes the registry settings, desktop icons and other components when the user logs off. Initially, Share Tech will offer commercial demos, shareware and freeware. The company may add full-use software and pay-per-use applications later. As the name implies, freeware is free software. Shareware is generally free for a limited time or with limited features as a trial; users can then decide to pay a fee to purchase it or unlock all the features. Share Tech�s site will continue to offer downloads as well, an area in which it has emerged as an industry leader. The site features a wide range of programs to download from music players and games to office programs and utility software. Obituaries | Sports | Business | Classifieds | Tempo | Prime Times | So Oregon Sites | Outdoor Journal | Subscribe | Contact | Movies | Advertise | Real Estate Showcase | Archive | Editorials | Letters to the editor | Religion | Wake-up Call | NIE | Cyber Chef | Job Network | So Oregon Weather | WSJ Northwest | Forums | AP Wire | AP Money | F.A.Q. | Awards Ottaway Newspapers, Inc. The Community Newspaper Subsidiary of Dow Jones & Co, Inc Copyright �The Mail Tribune 2000, Medford, Oregon USA