Bubbleware
Frivolous software, primarily games.

Freeware
Not public domain, but free stuff nonetheless. Owners retain copyright.

Shareware
Software that is not distributed through commercial channels. Generally stuff that works but might have a notice in your face each time you start it up (or quit), until you pay for it and get a registration code to enter. Some features may be disabled until registration. Lots of good software out there at pretty good prices. If you use it, pay for it! This page (and almost everything on this site) was made with a Swedish shareware program called PageSpinner.

Shovelware
The massive repositories of software, such as stuff included with a new disk drive. Scareware
Practical joke programs, like "Sexy" which suckers you in and then gives you a fake bomb. Stareware
Screensavers. Vaporware
Software that hasn't shipped and probably never will.