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Explanation of Terms

What is actually ...

Shareware

Shareware is a type of free software. Shareware is mostly available on the Internet or on CD's from computer magazines. This software is only a limited version of the original version. Either you can only use the program for 30 days or not all functions are included, as with the full version. Only when you have registered with the programmer and have paid a certain amount of money can you enjoy all the functions of the program.

Shareware may be copied and passed on free of charge, but the programmer retains the copyright. The program must therefore not be changed in any way.

Shareware is a good way to test programs before you buy them. However, there are also shareware programs that work fine without the paid parts.

Freeware

Freeware is software that is available free of charge. Freeware are full versions and can be found on the Internet or on CD's from computer magazines. Freeware versions contain the unrestricted version of the software.

In the case of freeware, the programmer still has all the copyright provisions, so it may be copied and passed on free of charge, but not changed.

Freeware programs are a great alternative to the expensive programs in the store.

Public Domain

One particularly nice type of software is public domain. It is available free of charge and may also be copied and distributed free of charge.

Public domain is not subject to any copyright regulations and can be changed by anyone.

PD software is not as common as free or shareware. In fact, you have to be lucky if you want to find a useful program of this kind.