Proprietary software

Proprietary software, or proprietary software, is software that is owned by its authors or rights holders. It is the opposite of free software, which can be used by anyone. The owner of proprietary software can use it, modify it, and claim rights to it. Restrictions include restrictions on commercial use, restrictions on distribution, and restrictions on modification.

In case of unauthorized use or modification of such software, its owner can resort to legal or technical enforcement mechanisms. Proprietary software is subject to trade secret, copyright, and patent laws.