Software Shareware

Freeware is different from shareware. Shareware requires a minor payment if the software is to be used past a trial period. Freeware offers free of charge and can be downloaded off of the Internet. If the software requires the user to view advertisements while using the program, it is technically not freeware but ‘adware’.
Freeware, as the word implies, does not require financial compensation. It has a user license that is specific to the freeware it is packaged with, but some restrictions are common to most programs. Freeware sometimes forbids the user to alter the program in any manner or sell it.  Redistribution is permissible so long the program is unchanged and the license agreement intact.
Freeware does not come with technical support, and some programs do not have an extensive help line menu. Many operators write programs in their free time but they do not have the resources to offer technical support. Freeware programs have an extensive built-in manual, and they also have their own websites with FAQs for helping users.
Shareware is primarily a “try before you buy” marketing tool.  The major benefit that users derive from shareware is that it lets you try a program for a period of time before you pay for it. During this trial period you would know whether it is suitable for you.
Shareware entrepreneurs are accomplished programmers and the programs are of comparable quality.  The shareware concept is very popular with users for a number of reasons, the main reason being it allows you to try the system before buying it.

Tags: Software Shareware

This entry was posted on Saturday, May 3rd, 2008 at 4:32 am and is filed under Software Shareware. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.