I have created a new web site that will be reviewing networking devices and software. Is there a certain way I should go about requesting companies to send me their products for review? So far I am just emailing their PR departments and sending them a very basic email. Anyone have any thoughts on this?
Just browse websites .. I don't think you will get lot of response from companies. But your idea of emailing them manually would be a nice way also to get information from them.
If you include stats showing high traffic, I'm sure they'd be happy to supply products for review. You're not going to get much with a new site.
I think that another way to review a software would be to see how it works on a friend's computer or to download a trial version. After that, you can write the company and ask their opinion about a finalized review. An example is here. I don't own this game, but I played it on a friend's computer.