Proprietary software, also known as closed-source software, is software that is owned by an individual or a company and typically requires payment for its use. The key characteristic that defines proprietary software is that its source code is kept secret, accessible only to the owner or individuals authorized by the owner. This control allows proprietors to restrict, modify, and manage the distribution of their software.
Characteristics of Proprietary Software
- Ownership: The software is owned by an individual or a company.
- Licensing: Users must agree to specific terms and conditions, often involving a fee, to use the software.
- Restricted Access: Access to the source code is limited to the owner and authorized personnel.
- Support and Updates: Typically provided by the proprietor, often as part of the licensing agreement.
Types of Proprietary Software
Desktop Applications
These include software solutions used for various purposes, such as word processing, spreadsheets, and graphic design tools. Examples are Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Photoshop.
Enterprise Software
Used by organizations to handle operations, such as Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software. Notable examples include SAP and Oracle.
Operating Systems
Proprietary operating systems are integral to many computing environments. Examples include Microsoft Windows and macOS.
Special Considerations in Proprietary Software
- Licensing Models: Different licensing models such as perpetual licenses, subscription-based models, and usage-based licenses.
- Cost: Proprietary software often involves significant costs, including purchase price, ongoing maintenance, and support fees.
- Customization: Limited customization options as changes to the software need to go through the proprietors.
Example of Proprietary Software
- Microsoft Office Suite: A widely used suite of productivity applications including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Adobe Creative Cloud: A collection of software for graphic design, video editing, and web development.
Historical Context
Proprietary software became prominent in the 1970s and 1980s as companies started to commercialize software products. IBM and Microsoft spearheaded the movement, setting the stage for the proprietary software models seen today.
Applicability
Proprietary software is used across various sectors, from individual users needing productivity tools to enterprises requiring robust, secure solutions for business processes.
Comparisons
- Proprietary Software vs. Open Source Software: While proprietary software restricts access to its source code, open source software allows users to view, modify, and distribute the source code freely.
Related Terms
- Closed-source Software: Synonymous term for proprietary software.
- Software Licensing: The legal instrument governing the usage and distribution of software.
- Source Code: The human-readable instructions that a programmer writes.
FAQs
Q: Can proprietary software be free of charge?
A: Yes, some proprietary software may be free to use, though it often comes without access to the source code or additional features.
Q: What happens if a company owning proprietary software goes out of business?
A: If the owning company goes out of business, users may lose support and updates for the software. In some cases, the software may be abandoned or even transitioned to open source by the company.
Q: Can proprietary software be customized?
A: Customization of proprietary software is often limited and typically needs to be carried out or authorized by the software proprietor.
References
- “Proprietary Software”. Techopedia. Retrieved from https://www.techopedia.com/definition/23077/proprietary-software.
- “What is Proprietary Software?”. Definition from WhatIs.com. Retrieved from https://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/proprietary-software.
Summary
Proprietary software remains a cornerstone of the software industry, characterized by ownership, licensing, and restricted access to source code. It spans various types and has critical applications across numerous sectors. Understanding its distinct features and implications is crucial for informed software selection and usage.
