That Whats of the Wares
- Kasey Brown
- Sep 14, 2023
- 3 min read
A brief insight into the different software programs
Open Source Software:
Open source software (OSS) can be considered the father of the internet when looked at through a critical lens. In a nutshell, OSS is a software that is changeable by the public. Originally called Free Software Foundation, OSS promotes collaboration that allows programs to be more stable and suitable for users. Generally, OSS is free for users and uses various versions of the General Public License (GPL). GPL offers users access to alter and change source codes. In reading about the details of OSS and all that it encompasses, it can seem confusing and irrelevant. However, OSS is commonly used for everyday life for various reasons. Internet browsers like Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome are simple examples of OSS (Midrack, 2017).
Freeware:
Marrying the terms free and software, Freeware is every bit of what the word means: software programs that are free. In using freeware, there are no required paid licenses for use or donations necessary to access the material. However, it should be noted that freeware and free software are not exactly the same. It is important to understand that freeware is cost free and free software is copyright-free software. Like OSS, freeware can be altered at the discretion of the user. The idea behind freeware is that it can be used however users see it (Fisher, 2018). Not at all freeware programs have accessible codes, but some do. However, most are not editable like OSS. Also in using freeware, it is important to know the restrictions for personal and commercial use. Freedoms for the use of the softwares are granted by the creator and can vary from program to program.
Shareware:
Shareware is a software that is free of cost and is purposely designed to be shared with others. However, there are limitations on its use. Shareware software programs are often free for limited purposes and the only way those limitations can be lifted is by purchasing full access to the software. Think free trial. Shareware is great for users who are wanting to try something out to understand its functionality and purpose. One type of shareware is called freemium. Freemium refers to programs that are unlimitedly free, but with limited features. Adware is a program that is free, but offers advertisements to take in revenue. Nagware is software that is frequently “nagging” users to purchase and upgrade to the full access versions. Demonstration software (demoware) is generally provided for free within a certain time period-another great option to try before you buy. Lastly, donationware is a software that is a combination of several of these types and is often asking for donations in place of usage.
Evaluating Importance:
Understanding each of these types of softwares is important for leaders in educational technology. It is essential that leaders understand the purposes of software programs, as well as the ways in which to access. As an educational technologist, it would be important to understand how to allocate funds accordingly for desired programs, but also access free programs that are relevant and beneficial to learning. While I have heard of many programs that fall into these categories, I was unaware of the actual names and differences between the types of softwares. I think this bit of information would be useful to someone who is looking to find affordable learning programs that benefit both teachers and students.
Additional Resources
Works Cited
Fisher, T. (2017, November 30). What is shareware?. Lifewire. https://www.lifewire.com/shareware-definition-4154860
Fisher, T. (2018, January 16). What is freeware?. Lifewire. https://www.lifewire.com/freeware-definition-4154271
Midrack, R. L. (2017, August 23). What is open source software?. Lifewire. https://www.lifewire.com/what-is-open-source-software-4147547
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