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Shareware
Shareware is a copyrighted piece of software that
is freely
distributed: typically, the programs are trial versions or
somehow
restricted
in their services provided, under the assumption that if users like the
product, they will purchase a full version if available. It is often
confused
with freeware, which is a fully functional copyrighted work that does
not seek
any payment, although donations can be accepted. While it was already
popular
when floppy disks were the norm, the internet and broadband has greatly
expanded the potential audience of shareware. Almost every anti-virus
or
malware protection program offers a trial version of its services, and
most
videogames offer demo versions of their products as well. It has become
common
for shareware products to be fully functional, expiring after a certain
time
has expired, although some shareware still come with
“restrictedâ€
operations. For
example, a videogame demo might allow two hours of free, unrestricted
play,
whereas another might allow completion of the first two levels of play
regardless of time spent.
iD History
The computer game, Doom, is famous for starting a genre of
first-person action games, but is also notable for initially spreading
via
shareware. Millions of shareware copies were obtained, and the company
cites
the shareware programs as having much to do with the software's
eventual
success, as well as growing popularity for the distribution model.
The
History of Shareware
A collection of readings from Jim Knopf, one of the founders
of shareware.
Tucows
An example of a shareware/freeware download site, with
various programs available for use.
VersionTracker
A listing of shareware/freeware programs that is very clear
about the current version numbers and file sizes, which can be helpful
with
catching unsafe files. Different file sizes or different version
numbers can
catch unsafe programs before they are run.
Web-based
malicious attacks on rise in India
India has remained one of the top countries targeted by
cyber threats, and many viruses and worms get picked up from unsafe
freeware/shareware programs.
What
is Shareware, Trial Software and Freeware?
An explanation of the differences between shareware and
freeware.
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