Freeware vs. Shareware — What's the Difference?

Freeware is software, most often proprietary, that is distributed at no monetary cost to the end user. There is no agreed-upon set of rights, license, or EULA that defines freeware unambiguously; every publisher defines its own rules for the freeware it offers.

Shareware is a type of proprietary software which is initially shared by the owner for trial use at little or no cost with usually limited functionality or incomplete documentation but which can be upgraded upon payment. Shareware is often offered as a download from a website or on a compact disc included with a magazine.

Software that is available for free, usually over the internet.

Copyrighted software that is available free of charge on a trial basis, usually with the condition that users pay a fee for continued use and support.

(software) Complete and functional software that does not require payment or other compensation (such as viewing advertising) for its use. Freeware may be a proprietary license with no access to the source code.

(software) A type of software that is distributed without payment but is limited in any combination of functionality, availability, or convenience.

Software that is provided without charge

Software that is available free of charge; may be distributed for evaluation with a fee requested for additional features or a manual etc.