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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
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