Proprietary software is that in which a user has limited possibilities to use, modify or redistribute it, and often there is a cost to license it.
Proprietary, non-free, private or proprietary software is called the type of computer programs or applications in which the user cannot access the source code or has restricted access and, therefore, is limited in its possibilities of use, modification and redistribution. This type of software is opposed to the more recently popularized free software, which allows anyone to modify and redistribute it.
Proprietary software is the most common, since it implies that to access it the user must pay for a license and can only use it in a restricted context, that is, in order for it to be used by different computers, other licenses must be paid for. Furthermore, this software may not be modified or improved in its operation, nor may it be redistributed to other recipients.
Proprietary software is often developed by corporations, such as that produced and distributed by Microsoft. These companies own the copyright in the software, and therefore users may not access the source code, distribute copies, improve it, or make improvements public.
Currently, the popularity of free software developed by small companies or user groups has reached a high point, as is the case with the Linux operating system. This type of applications that allow a wide number of possibilities to the user beyond the simple fact of using it encourages conversations and active participation that often contributes to improving the system quickly and reliably. Large companies have taken note of these changes and have had to join the free software race by launching open versions of their programs or inviting users to give their opinions about it.
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