Those installers are the #1 way hackers distribute malware, ransomware, or keyloggers . You might get the software to open, but you might also be giving someone access to your saved passwords or banking info in the background. The Compatibility Headache
If "free" is a hard requirement, check out DaVinci Resolve . The standard version is completely free, professional-grade, and has a built-in motion graphics tool called "Fusion" that does exactly what After Effects does. Adobe After Effects CC 2018 Free Download
You’d be missing out on "Multi-Frame Rendering" (which makes exporting way faster) and AI tools like Roto Brush 2.0 that save hours of manual work. The Better (and Safer) Way Those installers are the #1 way hackers distribute
Here’s the reality of what usually happens when you go looking for those older, "free" versions: The "Free" Trap Skip the sketchy downloads
Even if you find a version that isn't a virus, CC 2018 is now several years old.
Skip the sketchy downloads. Your computer (and your sanity) will thank you. If you just want to learn motion graphics today, grab the DaVinci Resolve download or the official Adobe trial!