Shareware is a distibution method, not a type of software.
The author gives the user a chance to try the software for a limited time before buying it. If the user likes the software and wants to continue using it after the trial period, he must make a registration payment. With the registration, he gets anything, from the simple right to continue using the software with no function limitations and no nag screens, to more game levels etc.
Caution! The fee paid to the disk vendor, or the price for the CD-ROM is not to be mixed up with the registration payment.
Shareware authors are accomplished programmers, just like commercial authors, and the programs are of comparable quality. (In both cases, there are good programs and bad ones!) The main difference lies in the method of distibution.
Both, commercial authors and shareware authors, have got the same copyright laws. All rights belong to the copyright holders. There are some exceptions. The shareware author specifically grants the right to copy and distribute the software, either to all and sundry or to a specific group. For example, some authors require written permission before a commercial disk vendor may copy the software.
Shareware programs are mostly cheaper than commercial programs, because there are no costs for advertising, in between transactions, storing a.s.o.
The shareware author is a special communication partner for the user and he is thankful for all suggestions. The users have influence on the further development of the program.
The shareware concept allows the fast circulation of the software. So it is possible to react quickly on faults and on users' wishes.
1. The authors are responsible for the quality and variety of their products.
2. The shareware vendors or the magazines ore internet download sites are responsible for distribution and advertising.
3. The users' registration's moral decides wether this special distribution concept is successful or not.