proprietary software

Proprietary software is software that is owned by an individual or a company, and their rights are protected by copyright and licensing agreements. Users typically need to purchase a license to use it, and they are generally restricted from copying, sharing, or altering the software. The source code is not openly available, meaning users cannot see or modify how the software works. Examples include most commercial programs like Microsoft Windows or Adobe Photoshop. Proprietary software allows developers to maintain control over the product, often providing dedicated support and updates in exchange for the licensing fees.