Before you can use any computer program, you need to know the rules for its use as defined in the license. This is what defines what you can and can't do with the software in question. The software license system can be complicated, but once you know the basic rules, it will be easier to navigate.

Basic types of software licenses

Why can some programs be copied freely and others not? The answer lies precisely in the differences between types of software licenses. Let's start with the basics - a legal contract between the manufacturer and the user of a program specifies in detail the terms of use of the software, its distribution and possible modification. Different types of licenses offer different possibilities - from very restrictive restrictions to almost complete freedom of action.


By violating the established conditions you risk serious legal consequences. Therefore, you should carefully read the documentation before installing any program.

Commercial software licenses

Computer software licenses in the commercial version fall into several main categories:


  • OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) - Permanently assigned to a specific equipment;
  • BOX - allows for portability between devices;
  • Temporary license (subscription) - Based on a monthly or annual subscription;
  • Educational license - for schools and students;
  • Volume license - For installation on multiple workstations.

Wondering which license to choose? It all depends on how you plan to use the software. If you need the software for your business, volume packages will be the most cost-effective - you'll pay less per workstation. An individual user has to decide between the OEM version (cheaper, but assigned to one computer) and BOX (more expensive, but more flexible).


Many people also opt for a subscription model -. in this case, you pay a small monthly or annual fee, instead of spending a large amount to get started. In return, you always have access to the latest version of the program and technical support. And if you're a student or teacher, check out educational offers - you can often use professional tools for a fraction of the standard price.

Free and partially free solutions

Among the types of computer licenses available, you will also find many free options. Freeware allows you to use a program for free, but usually without the right to modify the source code. Shareware, on the other hand, allows you to test an application for a limited period of time or with certain limitations on functionality.


An interesting solution is donationware, where the program is available for free, but you can voluntarily support the creator with a donation. For that, Adware offers free access in exchange for displaying ads.


There are also some unusual computer program licenses, such as Postcardware, where the "payment" is to send a postcard to the program's creator, or Careware, which encourages support for charitable organizations.


Popular trial on the other hand, is a time-limited, full version of the program that allows you to test all the features before you buy.

Open source licenses

Many of the programs you use every day are just running under an open source license. Firefox, Linux or LibreOffice are illustrative examples. The open source approach to code promotes software development because many developers from around the world can work on it.


GPL (GNU General Public License) is one of the best-known open source licenses. It is a so-called restrictive license that requires any project using code under the GPL to be released under the same rules. In contrast, MIT and Apache are permissive licenses - they impose far fewer restrictions and allow code to be used even in closed, commercial projects.


It is also necessary to distinguish between GPL v2 and GPL v3 - the newer version introduces additional protection from software patents and DRM protections.


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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use the same program on several computers?

It depends on the type of contract. OEM licenses are assigned to one device, while BOX often allows installation on several computers.

  • How to check what license a program has?

You can usually find information about the terms of use during installation, in the program's documentation or on the manufacturer's website.

  • Can freeware be used commercially?

Not always - often a separate license agreement is required for commercial use.

  • What are the penalties for violating the terms of the license?

The consequences can be severe - from financial penalties to criminal liability.

  1. Can I sell a program that I no longer need?

It also depends on the contract - some allow resale, others categorically prohibit it.