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Simple English definitions for legal terms
freeware
Read a random definition: reference
A quick definition of freeware:
Freeware is a type of software that is available for anyone to use, copy, modify, and distribute for any purpose, including making money. The word "free" refers to the usage rights, not the price. This means that even if the software is initially purchased, it can still be freely shared and modified. However, not all free software allows for these usage rights, so it's important to check before using or sharing it. Freeware is also known as free software and is different from proprietary software and shareware.
A more thorough explanation:
Freeware is a type of software that is available for anyone to use, copy, modify, and distribute for any purpose, including financial gain. The term "free" refers to the usage rights rather than the price.
For example, the popular web browser Mozilla Firefox is freeware. Anyone can download and use it for free, and they are also allowed to modify and distribute it. Another example is the image editing software GIMP, which is also freeware.
Freeware is different from proprietary software, which is owned by a company and cannot be modified or distributed without permission. It is also different from shareware, which is free to try but requires payment for continued use.