End-user license agreement
End-user license agreement definition
End-user license agreement (EULA) refers to a legal contract between the software developer or vendor and the person using the software. It outlines the rights and restrictions that apply to the use of the software, often specifying where and how the software can be installed and used. A user typically must accept the EULA before using software.
See also: asynchronous transfer mode, multiprotocol label switching
The purpose of end-user license agreement:
- Defines whether the software can be used on multiple devices, shared, or resold.
- Protects the software provider’s intellectual property rights.
- Limits the software provider’s liability, often including disclaimers about warranties.
- Specifies any conditions under which the license can be terminated.
- Addresses data collection, privacy, and other user-specific concerns.
Common end-user license agreement conditions:
Typically, EULA will prohibit users from making unauthorized copies, altering its code, reselling it, or removing copyright notices from the software. It also often describes how the user can transfer the license, if they can.
Breaking the terms of EULA can result in a variety of consequences, primarily immediate license termination. The user may lose access to the software updates or have their account removed completely. In more severe cases, the software provider might pursue legal action against the user, resulting in fines or damages.