Trialware

Trialware is a software licensing and distribution model where a program is made available for use during a trial period, after which the user is typically required to purchase a license to continue using it. This allows potential customers to evaluate the software's functionality and suitability before committing to a purchase. Trialware often comes in several forms, including time-limited trials, feature-limited trials, or a combination of both.

Time-limited trialware allows full access to the software for a set duration, such as 7, 14, or 30 days. Once this period expires, the software will either cease to function or become severely restricted, prompting the user to buy a license. Feature-limited trialware, sometimes called "demoware," offers a fully functional version of the software but disables certain advanced features or capabilities. These disabled features are unlocked upon purchase of a full license. Some trialware may also be limited in the number of times a specific action can be performed or the amount of data that can be processed.

The primary benefit of trialware for vendors is its ability to reduce purchase risk for consumers, potentially leading to higher conversion rates. For users, it provides a risk-free opportunity to test software and ensure it meets their needs. While generally effective, some users may find the constant reminders or limitations of trialware to be intrusive.