Trialware

Trialware

Trialware or demoware is a program that limits the time that it can be effectively used, commonly via a built-in time limit, number of uses, or only allowing progression up to a certain point (e.g. video game demos). The user can try out the fully-featured program until the trial period is up, and then most trialware reverts to either a reduced-functionality (known as freemium, nagware, or crippleware) or non-functional mode, unless the user purchases the full version. Trialware has become normalized for software as a service (SaaS). WinRAR is a notable example of unlimited trialware, i.e. a program that retains its full functionality even after the trial period has ended.