The CW for Windows

Watch your favorite shows at no cost

The CW is a free video-streaming software that enables you to watch the latest hit shows in America. Developed by CW Network, this multimedia program is the official application of The CW channel and lets you stream episodes for free without having to register an account or even log in.

Similar to Disney+, The CW app functions just like an online television channel. However, it doesn’t follow releases at the same time as that would require you to pay for the privilege. Not all TV programs on the channel are free for you to watch.

What does The CW stand for?

The CW Television Network—known simply as “The CW”—is an American English-language broadcast television network operated by The CW Network, LLC. It’s co-owned by the CBS Entertainment Group unit of ViacomCBS and WarnerMedia. Thus, its name comes from the abbreviation derived from the first letters of the two companies: the “C” in ViacomCBS and the “W” in WarnerMedia. This network mainly offers entertainment shows and TV series like Riverdale, The Flash, Nancy Draw, Supergirl, and more. It doesn’t really focus much on news.

This network has various platforms through which you can access its content. For those constantly on the go or just want the channel on hand, you can use its mobile app that’s also called The CW. With it, you are able to watch full episodes of every primetime show the day after they’re broadcasted. You can also access the full seasons of certain selected series. Additionally, there are previews available for extra content like upcoming episodes, behind-the-scenes extras, cast interviews, and more.

Is The CW free?

The CW primarily provides video-on-demand access for delayed viewing of full episodes of its TV programs. This means that while you can freely watch its selection of shows, not all are immediately available when they’re aired on live television. This helps keep the service free for all—allowing you to stream without having to pay for a subscription or even log in to an account. Simply open the app and choose something to watch; no need to worry about passwords and the like.

Aside from the aforementioned popular shows, the app also lets you stream content from its CW SEED production arm—which provides original content created exclusively for digital platforms. Using the app, however, means that you’ll have to be accepting of it sometimes toeing the line around your digital privacy. It features Nielsen’s proprietary measurement software, which gauges how consumers engage with media across various platforms. The app’s usage contributes to market research and there’s no way to disable this.

A strong streaming app contender

All in all, The CW is a great option for cheap video-on-demand online streaming if you want to have to get an account or sign up for a monthly subscription. While some of its data privacy policies can turn others off, it’s not an illegal venture and does contribute to the study of media consumption. Plus, the good deals you get with its features are worth this hassle.