Summary of Software Fundamentals and System Settings

## Introduction Software licensing determines how people can use, share, and modify software. Licences protect the rights of the software creator while defining what users may legally do. Understanding common licence types helps you choose the right software for school, projects, or business use. > **Definition:** A software licence is a legal agreement that specifies the rights and restrictions for using a software product. ## Types of Software Licensing Software licences can be grouped by source availability (open source vs closed source) and by how they are sold or distributed (proprietary, freeware, shareware, subscription, site licence). ### 1. Open Source vs Closed Source - **Open Source**: The source code is publicly available. People can use, inspect, modify, and share the code. Examples: Mozilla Firefox, Linux. > **Definition:** Open-source software is software whose source code is made available for anyone to study, change, and distribute. - **Closed Source**: The source code is private. Users receive executable programs but cannot view or modify the code. Licence terms control usage. Examples: many commercial software products. > **Definition:** Closed-source software is software where the source code is kept secret by the owner and users must follow licence terms for use. Fun fact: Many popular open-source projects like Linux started as small student or hobbyist efforts and grew because contributors shared improvements. ### 2. Common Licence Types (Closed-source examples included) Below are common licence models you will meet in real life. #### Proprietary Licence - The software is owned by a person or company. - Users must follow strict terms and often pay to use the software. - Source code is not available for modification. - Example: Commercial programs sold under a licence fee. > **Definition:** A proprietary licence gives the owner exclusive rights and restricts user actions such as copying, modifying, or redistributing the software. #### Freeware - Free to use at no cost. - Source code is not provided, so users cannot modify the program. - Often used for small utilities and popular free apps. - Example: Many free web browsers or communication tools in their basic form. > **Definition:** Freeware is software distributed at no charge but without access to the source code. #### Shareware - Distributed free for a trial period or with limited features. - Users are expected to pay for full features or continued use. - Encourages users to try before buying. > **Definition:** Shareware is trial-based software that may require payment after a trial period or to unlock full functionality. #### Subscription Licence - User pays regularly (monthly or yearly) to use the software. - Payments often include updates and support while the subscription is active. - Example: Microsoft 365 plans where continued access requires ongoing payment. > **Definition:** A subscription licence provides time-limited access to software in exchange for recurring payments and typically includes updates. #### Site Licence - One licence covers multiple installations at a single location (e.g., a school campus or office building). - Instead of buying individual licences for every device, the organisation buys a single site licence for covered devices. - Example: A university buying a single licence that allows installation on all campus computers. > **Definition:** A site licence allows an organisation to install software on many devices at a specific location under one licence agreement. Did you know that some companies combine licence types, offering free basic versions (freeware) alongside paid subscription tiers to fund development? ## Comparing Licence Types | Licence Type | Cost | Source Code Access | Can Modify/Redistribute? | Typical Use Case | |---|---:|---|---|---| | Proprietary | Paid | No | No | Commercial desktop or specialist software | | Freeware | Free | No | No | Free tools and utilities | | Shareware | Trial /