Definición:
Shareware is a type of software that is distributed for free, at least initially, so that users can try it before deciding if they want to buy the full version. In many cases, the trial versions of shareware programs come with some limitations, such as a certain period of time of use, restricted functionalities, ads, among others.
The concept of shareware emerged in the 1980s, as an innovative form of software distribution. It was a model popularized by programmers and small software companies that did not have the resources to compete with large corporations in terms of advertising and distribution. With the advent of the Internet, shareware has become an even more popular model due to the ease of digital software distribution.
Today, shareware is still a popular way to distribute software, especially in the realm of video games and productivity apps. However, it has evolved and given rise to new distribution models, such as freemium, which allows users to access basic features for free, but requires a payment to unlock additional features.
Shareware has several advantages:
Despite the advantages, shareware also has its disadvantages:
Shareware has had a huge impact on the software industry. It has provided individual programmers and small businesses with a way to compete in a market dominated by large corporations. It has also influenced the emergence of new business models, such as software as a service (SaaS) and the freemium model.