Freeware definition
Freeware is proprietary software that is released for free to the public. It is different from free software because it doesn't let you modify or share it, whereas free software does. The developers who create the freeware decide what you can do with their freeware, like whether or not you can reuse it in the software you’re making and other similar rules. Freeware is free forever, and you can use or create freeware for phones, desktops, and web-based programs.
See also: proprietary software, antivirus
Freeware examples
- WeChat. WeChat is one of the market's most popular and widely known freeware examples. It is a Chinese instant messaging app that comes with social media services and a payment app.
- Telegram. Telegram is another instant messaging app that is free to use for everyone forever. You can use it to send messages, make calls, make video calls, and share photos, videos, and other files.
- Malwarebytes' anti-malware. Malwarebytes' anti-malware is free anti-malware software available on a wide range of devices, such as Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS. You can use it to protect your devices from malware.
- Avast antivirus. Avast's antivirus software offers basic antivirus features for free, but it also has a paid version. The free features that it offers are an example of freeware.
