Freeware or Shareware Programs

SafeBytes Software

Is there any difference between freeware and shareware programs? Are they similar? Let's find out.

Software are either installed as freeware or shareware. Whereas a freeware is freely available computer software for unlimited use, a shareware is a commercially available program that can be distributed to be used as a trial for specified number of days. Users have an option of paying for the software once the trial period is over.

Copyright

Both shareware and freeware are covered by licensing and copyright laws where the holder retains all rights. The defined rights may define the software usage in terms of:

• Personal use• Academic purpose• Commercial and non-commercial interests• Non-profit usage

A shareware like TotalSystemCare for system scan is available as freeware to users for review. You can extend the license by obtaining the licenses from SafeBytes. Please note that both shareware and freeware may have both 'free for personal and non-commercial use' copyright clauses.

How Are They Distributed

Since shareware programs are available on the internet for trials and reviews before actual purchasing. The distribution of shareware is limited up to that point when a user buys it from the manufacturer. When you buy it, there will be no middleman or retailers. The manufacturer has a direct contact with the buyer. When there is no dealership in between the customer enjoys reduced prices. Distributing shareware requires the author's permission.

Freeware end user agreement gives permission to distribute and copy the software to anyone who is interested. The user has a chance to test, review, and use the product without payment or any form of acknowledgement.

Support

The kind of end user support that you get from shareware is tailored to the needs of your current enquiry. Developers of this kind of software have a dedicated communication channel that offers support and technical assistance. For example, TotalSystemCare will ask for your comments or enquiries via the SafeBytes.com website. You can get assistance as well as user manuals.

Freeware support is largely supported by the open source community. This community is dependent on volunteers who share information on further improvements or bug fixes. Because of this freeware programs are not updated regularly and may lack some functional features.</p>

Other Differences

Shareware

Any additional features must be paid for which translates to extra cost. Shareware are programs that normally focuses on making your work easy in fulfilling a basic task. Authors of shareware normally use this trial period for evaluation purposes before releasing the full version into the market. If you need to do a more complex tasks you can opt to get a fully licensed program.

Freeware

All available features are free All changes and updates only done by the author. Anyone can modify the software and make it freely available. Free trial versions of the software may have bugs and window popups. Freeware are ideal for any one wants alternative to shareware because of the costs implications. Technical knowledge is needed in order to make any modifications to suit your personal requirements.