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SHAREWARE
Software that is usually
available for a free trial period, but for which the author asks a
small fee if you continue to use it.
More Detailed Definition:
Software distributed on the basis
of an honor system. Most shareware is delivered free of charge,
but the author usually requests that you pay a small fee if you
like the program and use it regularly. By sending the small fee,
you become registered with the producer so that you can receive
service assistance and updates. You can copy shareware and pass it
along to friends and colleagues, but they too are expected to pay
a fee if they use the product.
Shareware is inexpensive because
it is usually produced by a single programmer and is offered
directly to customers. Thus, there are practically no packaging or
advertising expenses.
Note that shareware differs from public-domain software in that
shareware is copyrighted. This means that you cannot sell a
shareware product as your own.
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