Authorization of software uses for information systems Specific instructions: In
ID: 3744703 • Letter: A
Question
Authorization of software uses for information systems
Specific instructions:
In this activity you must argue about the options for authorizing the use of software.
The arguments must be logical, coherent and relevant. The reading should be fluid, accessible and expose what is requested.
Use the following questions as a guide for your contribution:
Is it mandatory to use softwares (programs) that do not have copyrights ?
Can you copy a shareware software and pass it to your friends?
If the author of the software allows you to use it, can you sell it?
Explanation / Answer
Copyright is a right given by the law to creators/originators of musical/artistical / literacy / dramatic work/ sound/cinematography etc. It ensures the minimal safeguard of the rights of authors over their creations, thereby protecting and rewarding their creativity. Software copyright is the extension of copyright law to machine-readable software.
One may use any software that may or may not be copyright protected. In the case of copyright protected software, it is mandatory to purchase the product and then use it lawfully; where non-copyright enabled software is not verified and may instead be used as Virus/ Phishing attacks by hackers. Free and open source licenses also rely on copyright law to enforce their terms. Basically, there are 3 types of software based on how programs may be distributed, copied, used, and modified.
Shareware => It is distributed at low (or sometimes no) cost, but usually requires payment and registration for full legal use. Copies are distributed on a trial basis. You are free to test the software, see if it matches your needs, and decide whether it's a good value. Order forms or advertisements included in the program or on the distribution disk usually tell you how to register the program and what fee is required. Registered users of a shareware program will typically receive a printed manual, an updated copy of the software, often with additional features, and the legal right to use the program in their home or business.
Shareware is not free software since authors of shareware programs expect payment from those who intend to use the programs regularly. However, it does have the advantage over standard commercial software that you may thoroughly test a program to see if it's useful before making a purchase.
While shareware may be freely copied, companies may not charge fees for copies that significantly exceed their duplication and handling costs. The authors of shareware programs also retain their copyright on the contents, and you may not modify such programs or distribute modified copies.
Freeware=> It is also distributed at minimal cost, but in this case, the authors do not expect payment for their work. Typically, freeware programs are small utilities or incomplete programs that authors release for their potential benefit to others, but without support. The author of a freeware program may still retain a copyright on its contents and stipulate that others not modify the program or charge significant fees for its use or distribution.
Public domain software =>It is not copyrighted. It is released without any conditions upon its use and may be used without restriction. This type of software generally has the lowest level of support available.
To me, “selling” means trading goods for money. Selling a copy of a free program is legitimate, and I encourage it.
However, when people think of “selling software”, they usually imagine doing it the way most companies do it: making the software proprietary rather than free.
One can sell Open source software, But depending on the license, one probably can't stop his/her customers from selling it in the same manner as him/her. See the commercial use first, for more details.
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