Shareware is a distribution method, not a type of software.
By allowing free distribution of the shareware version of a
program, its distributor gives users a chance to try the software
before buying it. This distribution method has continued to
grow in popularity since its introduction and is being used
today by some of the industry's giants including Intuit, IBM
and Microsoft.
If you try a shareware program and continue to use it, you
are expected to purchase the program.
Individual programs differ on details but most specify a maximum
period and/or number of uses during which you may evaluate the
program. If you continue to use the program after the stated
evaluation period, you are legally obligated to complete the
purchase.
Copyright laws apply to both shareware and regular commercial
software, and the copyright holder retains all rights. The author
specifically grants the right to copy and distribute the software,
either to all and sundry or to a specific group. For example,
some authors require written permission before a CD-ROM vendor
may distribute their shareware. Shareware authors are accomplished
programmers, just like commercial authors, and the programs
are of comparable quality - in both cases, there are good programs
and bad ones!
You should choose software that suits your needs and budget,
whether it's a retail commercial program or a shareware program.
The shareware approach makes meeting your needs easier, because
you can try before you buy. Shareware has the ultimate money-back
guarantee -- if you don't use the product, you don't pay