For the white papers, I’m sure they’re hoping that you’ll be in a position to buy some the product they’re describing, but you still get the white paper even if you’re just curious.

It’s an easy sign up process, too, about what you’d expect to get a magazine through the mail.

I just wanted to jump in and answer your question.

Basically the publishers need a certain number of subscribers so in return they can charge their advertisers a specific amount. It’s worth it to them to give you the magazine for free because you have a genuine need for the information and products described therein. Advertisers need a vehicle to deliver their message to you which justifies spending advertising dollars to give subscriptions for free.

Hope that helps:)