Softonic.com

Softonic is a download portal for software platforms, Windows, Linux, Mac and mobile devices. Launched in Spanish 1997 web site is currently available in ten languages, including, since 2004, in German. In addition to test reports on Softonic programs offers tips for dealing with software on the accompanying blog OnSoftware and in a user forum.

Softonic.com recorded more than 131 million unique users in September 2012. Worldwide Softonic in November 2012 has the Alexa Rank 162 The German side comes through loud Softonic.de information community to determine the distribution of advertising media in October 2012 to 8.7 million monthly visits, in January 2011 more than 11 million.

The company Softonic International, a subsidiary of the Spanish Grupo Intercom Internet Group, headquartered in Barcelona.

Financing model

Softonic is mainly financed through banner and link advertising. There is also a sales platform, their software can sell to the Softonic users on the software vendor. In the case of a purchase Softonic receives a commission from the dealer. In 2011 Softonic achieved a turnover of 45 million euros.

Controversies

Paid Freeware

2010 a cooperation with GMX, Sueddeutsche.de, FAZ.net and Web.de has been criticized that fee free programs (so-called freeware ) offered on the servers of Softonic. Director Tomás Diago replied to the accusations against 20min.ch: " The premium download is consistently clear as such [ ... ] marked. [ ... ] [F ] alls they do not agree with our paid offer [ this is ] removed immediately at their request. "

Toolbar

Softonic offered under Windows on a 4MB great add - on called the Softonic Toolbar for Firefox web browser and Internet Explorer, which allowed access to company-specific content. This is, however, classified as spyware and can be removed only with difficulty. The Softonic Downloader, which was suggested by Softonic as a compulsory requirement to download some programs, the toolbar installed without being asked to.

Others

As a so-called climate-neutral download portal Softonic Germany resembles their own words all CO2 emissions through the purchase of carbon credits from whose proceeds will go to climate protection projects. In the years 2008, 2009 and 2010, Softonic was awarded the "Best Place To Work " of the Institute Great Place to Work in Spain