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Definition of Freeware

Definition of Freeware

Freeware is computer software that is available for use at no cost or for an optional fee. Freeware thus refers to its licensing terms (or lack thereof, in the case of the public domain) rather than a functional software category. Freeware is an effective middle ground between commercial software and open source software, allowing authors to contribute something for the benefit of the community, while at the same time allowing them to retain control of the source code and preserve its business potential.

Freeware is different from shareware, where the user is obligated to pay (e.g. after some trial period or for additional functionality). Also note that the coined phrase "free software" is different from freeware.

Freeware program provided for no money, but does not provide access to the source code. Freeware is not garanteed to remain costless forever.