All About Freeware

Many web sites offer freeware or shareware software programs for download. What is the difference between these two formats?

SHAREWARE

This type of program typically lets people use it for a “trial period” before it expires, or restricts the features which can be used for free. It may also prohibit commercial use or only be usable a certain number of times. The restrictions are lifted after the user pays a registration fee. Some of these programs are useful in their unregistered state, others are basically just a preview.

FREEWARE

Free software, on the other hand, offers long-term full functionality without the payment of a fee. In some cases, the publisher may offer to sell a separate “professional” or “plus” version of the program, but users are not obligated to purchase it. Some publishers also ask for voluntary donations to help fund their software development efforts. “Open source” software is also free to use.

SIMILARITIES

Both freeware and shareware can be downloaded and distributed freely. Either type also provides at least some functionality free of charge.

Trackback URI | Comments RSS