Shareware, freeware, abandonware - what do all these names
mean? So many *wares abound that it's hard to keep them straight.
Here's a small list of so the ones I've found.
Shareware: This is the most commonly found Ware. The
author releases a full copy of the software to the public, and
users are morally (and sometimes legally) obliged to pay for the
software if they use it much. The advantage is that you can find
out if the software will fill your needs before you commit to
buying it. You don't have to trust a demo or a salesperson.
Additionally, it cuts out the middlemen (publishers, sales reps,
and the like) and you don't have to have a shrink-wrapped box on a
shelf in a store.
Crippleware: This is a form of shareware that locks out
some of the features until you have entered a registration code.
The honor system wasn't working - people like to think they're
getting something in return when they fork over cash these days. I
don't like crippleware, because it defeats the try-before-you-buy
point of shareware. You don't know how good the locked features are
until you pay.
Freeware: This is similar to shareware, except you aren't
expected to pay anything for it. You don't have to pay to use it.
Ironically, the term "freeware" was trademarked in the early
80s.
Public Domain: Public Domain software is more free than
Freeware. Not only do you get a license to use the software for
nothing, the author gives up most of his rights to the software.
Usually they still hold a copyright preventing someone else from
selling it, but anyone can modify the software in any way they
wish. This is usually prohibited in those license agreements nobody
reads.
- Please note an error in the Public Domain
section. As an astute reader pointed out, anything labelled Public
Domain has no copyright. The author of the software has no control
over it, and no way to regain control over it after it is labelled
as such.
Those are the major ones that you need to know. The rest that
you find are forms of shareware with funny payment options.
Beerware, Pintware, Guinessware, VBWare: This is based on
the premise that someone has done you a favor by writing a program.
What do you do when a mate does you a favor? You buy him a beer!
The author usually invites you to meet him at his favorite pub and
buy him a beer, or send him a couple bucks to have one on your
behalf. For those of you that are worrying, VB ("Victoria Bitter")
is the best Australian ale and has nothing to do with Microsoft. If
I ever see a piece of software labeled "FostersWare" I shall be
very upset....
Vodkaware, Margaritaware: This is based on a different
idea than Beerware. Here, the hard alcohol is required because one
must be blind drunk to deal with the inane tech calls and questions
that will ensue after distribution of the program.
JesusAware "distributed free as the grace of God":
Although at first it seems like Freeware, upon closer examination
its more like Shareware. The registration fee appears to be your
eternal soul. The game was good, but it wasn't that
good.
Emailware, Postcardware: Essentially freeware, but it's
natural that authors like to know their stuff is appreciated. So
you send them a quick note to say they made a great program. Trust
me, it's appreciated.
Daggerware: Yes, its true. Someone actually asked for
knives as a shareware fee.
Kittenware, Puppyware: Authors will take unwanted kittens
and puppies. I like this idea - I'd sure take another cat as a
shareware fee, and it keeps them out of the SPCA's already burdened
shelters.
Dateware: Ahh, the pinnacle of geek society. To write
such a fantastic piece of software that women will flock to meet
you.
Sexwear: Its not what you think. Note the spelling. The
(female, I think) author was asking for lingerie, silk scarves, and
handcuffs. Apparently it was a joke, but she claims to have
received some rather disturbing responses.
Tupperwareware: This is probably my favorite. If you use
the software for more than 30 days you are legally obliged to host
a Tupperware party. Apparently he would enforce this if he found
out you lived in the same county as him.
Subscriberware, PayPalWare: If you use the software,
you're obliged to go sign up for a free service that has a referral
bonus to the author of the program.
Donationware, Cancerware, UNICEFware: These authors ask
you to donate a small amount of money to a nonprofit organization
on their behalf.
If you have found any other amusing Wares along your travels,
send them my way. I'd love to add to my list!
This article is Pushupware - drop and give me 10!
Just kidding.
Andrew W. Hill (a.k.a. Aqua) has been using Macintosh computers
since 1987 and maintains that the Mac SE is the perfect Macintosh,
superior to all - including the Color Classic. He is on the verge
of being evicted from the family home due to its infestation of
Macs (last count: about 50). Andrew is attempting to pay his way
through college at UC Santa Cruz with freelance web design and Mac
tech support.
Share your perspective on the Mac by emailing with "My Turn" as your subject.
