# Proprietary software: what it is and how it works
> Proprietary software is distributed with restrictions that prevent users from freely studying, modifying or redistributing it.
URL: https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/internet/proprietary-software.html

# Proprietary software

Proprietary software is software distributed with legal or technical restrictions that prevent users from freely studying, modifying or redistributing it

What it means, how it is used and where it comes up, with its related concepts.

[The whole glossary](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary)

## What it is and how it works

The rights holder usually keeps the source code closed and grants a licence to use it under conditions: number of devices, bans on copying or reverse engineering, subscription term. Well-known examples include Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop and macOS.

Proprietary does not necessarily mean paid: many free-of-charge applications (freeware) are proprietary, and some free software is sold. What defines it is the licence, not the price. It contrasts with free and open-source software, which allow access to and reuse of the code.

Also known as

Closed-source software, Non-free software

Topics

[Technology and data](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/category/tecnologia-y-datos)

## Related concepts

- [Free software](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/internet/free-software.html)
- [Open source](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/internet/open-source.html)
- [Freeware](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/digital-marketing/freeware.html)