Freeware

Freeware (from "free" and "software") is computer software that is available for use at no cost or for an optional fee. The opposite of Freeware is Payware. The term freeware was coined by Andrew Fluegelman when he wanted to sell a communications program named PC-Talk that he had created but for which he did not wish to use traditional methods of distribution because of their cost. Fluegelman actually distributed PC-Talk via a process now referre... more

Freeware (from "free" and "software") is computer software that is available for use at no cost or for an optional fee. The opposite of Freeware is Payware. The term freeware was coined by Andrew Fluegelman when he wanted to sell a communications program named PC-Talk that he had created but for which he did not wish to use traditional methods of distribution because of their cost. Fluegelman actually distributed PC-Talk via a process now referred to as shareware. Current use of the term freeware does not necessarily match the original concept by Andrew Fluegelman. Software classified as freeware is normally fully functional for an unlimited time with no cost, monetary or otherwise. Freeware can be proprietary software available at zero price. The author usually restricts one or more rights to copy, distribute, and make derivative works of the software. The software license may impose restrictions on the type of use including personal use, individual use, non-profit use, non... less