Software Licensing. Why is it important?

Software licenses. And we always ignore it. Look who's guilty! :)

What is a software license?

A software license is usually an agreement that grants a right to use software code to someone else. A license usually grants less rights than a sale of a copy of the software. The rights to use the code are defined by the terms of the license.

Why is it important?

Software is important; therefore software licenses are important. Today's businesses rely upon software to perform many critical functions. Software makes machines and systems work in every sector of the world economy - everything from applications that control advanced medical devices, applications that make us entertained, applications that make companies productive, to programs that analyze the behavior of financial markets.

Software developers may want to make code available to other developers in order for applications to be more widely used in the market. Manufacturers and publishers may want to acquire rights to software that can make their products work in new ways or in ways compatible with customers' existing computer systems.

In order to have the legal right to use software to achieve the required needs, the rights and limits in the associated software license take on critical importance.

You wouldn’t want your hard-earned-my-precious-gadget get stolen, would you?

Licensing is one of the most crucial part in acquiring a software. But this is always ignored.

What are the consequences of using pirated software?

Companies can be held liable under both civil and criminal law if caught installing or purchasing unauthorised software copies - even if the company's executives didn't know an employee had done so.

Illegal software is a prime source of computer viruses, which can destroy valuable data or create serious company downtime. These copies have high failure and defection rates that may lead into a number of difficulties that stem from no user manuals , no warranties, no technical support, and no upgrade.

Apart from that, if you buy a single licensed copy and install the software on more than one computer, you've committed piracy. If you have a multiple license but install the program on too many computers, it's an "overuse" violation. Using an academic version of software in a commercial setting violates the law. Borrowing a friend's purchased copy and installing it is considered piracy. Downloading copyrighted programs from a file-sharing site is illegal, just as the RIAA has been preaching about music downloads. Internet shops selling reduced-priced software may be peddling illegal copies. Unless you have a full license number and an original manual, the software is probably a counterfeit. Apart from legal consequences, copied or counterfeit software can also result to technical headaches.

So, protect yourself, respect others, and give importance in buying a legitimate software.

Post Title : Software Licensing. Why is it important?