Shareware

usgb/ˈʃerwer/
noun

Software that you can use for free for a short time, but then you have to pay for it if you want to keep using it.

I downloaded a shareware program to edit photos, but I'll have to buy the full version to access all the features.
Visual representation of "shareware" - Software that you can use for free for a short time, but then you have to pay for it if you want to keep using it.

Often appears as...

  • download shareware
  • shareware program

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "shareware"
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Payment Expected

Shareware is not fully free. Creators expect payment if you continue using it after the trial.

Illustration for Payment Expected
The game is shareware, so I'll have to pay if I keep playing after the trial ends.
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Limited Features

The initial download may have limited features. Full features are unlocked after purchase.

Illustration for Limited Features
The shareware version only lets me save files in low quality.
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Time-Constrained

Shareware usually has a time limit, often 30 days, before you must pay or stop using it.

Illustration for Time-Constrained
My shareware antivirus expires next week.
Visual representation of the word "Shareware"

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