Программы, разработанные теми, или иными компаниями, могут распространяться по разному. Как правило, это Free, Shareware и Paid.
Let's talk about these types in more detail.
Free
Programs of this kind are distributed completely free of charge and do not impose any restrictions on functionality or the like. Most often, programs that few people know about are distributed for free. That is, this is done to popularize the software. But there are also cases where already popular programs are also distributed for free. There are many examples of such programs, for example: FRAPS, µTorrent, AlphaSkins, Denwer.
Shareware
These words mean free distribution of a program, but with certain conditions. For example, the popular program Bandicam, which allows you to record video from your computer desktop, is distributed as Shareware and imposes a special WaterMark on the video. And, for example, other programs may often display advertisements or offer to download other programs.
However, most often the words Shareware programs refer to a TRIAL version. That is, a version of the program that will only work for a certain period. For example, the antivirus software ESET Smart Security is distributed under this type and works for 30 days, after which it offers to purchase a license.
Paid
Such software will not work without a purchased key. As a rule, such programs provide some unique functionality, and that is why they require payment. However, it very often happens that such software is hacked and begins to be distributed for free. But most often, hacking such programs leads to reduced functionality.
Only the purchased version of the program will function fully, since in this case no conflicts will arise.
Good luck!
