What does shareware mean?
Shareware is a category of proprietary computer software made available for users to try before a purchase, usually at no cost or for a modest price. The trial may be limited by time, available features, saved documents, or the need to enter registration details. If users wish to continue using the software or gain its full functionality, they may be asked to purchase a license or register. Historically, shareware was commonly distributed through downloadable files and CD-ROMs, especially during the early and mid-2000s. The term is now less frequent because free trials, freemium software, and freeware have become established alternatives. Shareware should not be confused with freeware: shareware normally implies that continued or expanded use may require payment, whereas freeware is generally free of charge.
nounShareware is proprietary computer software distributed at little or no cost so that users can try it, usually with a time limit or feature restrictions. Continued use or full functionality may require payment or registration.
- Software distributed at little or no cost for evaluation, often with a time limit, disabled features, or other restrictions that may require payment for continued use.
- A software product offered under licensing terms that allow users to try it before purchasing a full version.
"The company offers a shareware version of its illustration program for a 30-day trial."
"She installed the shareware and tested it before deciding whether to buy the complete edition."
"The program was released as shareware, allowing visitors to use its basic features during the evaluation period."
Usually treated as an uncountable noun; the plural is uncommon and generally appears when referring to separate shareware products.
"The magazine reviewed several sharewares designed for home users."
Shareware is software's middle ground: a taste before the purchase, with the full meal reserved for those who pay.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of shareware
The word shareware is a compound of “share” and “software.” “Software” was coined in the twentieth century to distinguish computer programs from the hardware on which they run, while “share” contributes the idea of allowing users to try or share in the program before purchase. The compound became established as computers were distributed to homes and small businesses and software was commonly offered in trial form.
How shareware is actually used
The term is now less common than it was during the early and mid-2000s, when trial versions were widely distributed online and on CD-ROMs. It usually describes proprietary software rather than software that is permanently free, and it is often used with words such as “version,” “program,” and “product.”
Easily confused with shareware
Freeware is generally free to use without an obligation to pay, whereas shareware commonly provides a trial or restricted version that may require payment for continued use or expanded features.
Demo software is often a limited or incomplete version intended to demonstrate a product, while shareware specifically refers to software distributed on trial terms that may require later payment.