Difference between freeware, shareware and software

Difference between freeware, shareware and software

Shareware also indicates trialware or demoware which means the software that you’ll be acquiring is in a trial version or demo version. With this program’s status, you only have a certain amount of time or a specific period to use the software after it was first installed. After the time has elapsed, you will no longer be able to use it and will now ask you for its CD key or activation code. During this period the software will usually disables itself to force you to either buy it or remove it from your computer. Shareware is usually offered with limited features. All its features and functions will only be unlocked and made available after purchasing a license key.

Generally, software can be referred to the application or program that you run or use on your personal computer. It means computer instructions or data. It is anything that can be stored electronically. Software is often divided into two categories. Systems software includes the operating system and all the utilities that enable the computer to function. Applications software includes programs that do real work for users.

Freeware also means “free software”. It is software that you can use on your computer for free. Meaning, you don’t have to pay for it to use it. But freeware usually has restrictions or limitations on the product’s usage. This is typically the opposite of commercial software which is clearly sold for profit.