Software licensing is the legal framework that defines the rights to use software, specifying how and under what conditions a user can operate a program. Understanding the key features of licenses helps avoid violations and select the best option for your needs.
Grasping software licensing is especially important in 2026, as the variety of models—from free open-source to commercial proprietary—has expanded significantly. This affects not only cost but also possibilities for modifications, updates, and technical support. In this article, we explain what users need to know to navigate the world of licenses wisely and get the most out of purchased or downloaded applications.
| License Type | Right to Modify Code | Commercial Use | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proprietary | Forbidden | Usually allowed with purchase | From 12,000 ₽ (Windows) |
| GPL (Free) | Allowed | Allowed | Free |
| MPL 2.0 (Free) | Allowed | Allowed | Free |
| Freemium | Depends on product | Limited in free version | From 0 to 1,800 ₽/month |
- 12,000 ₽ Minimum license price for Microsoft Windows 11 Home
- 1,800 ₽ Monthly subscription cost for Adobe Creative Cloud
- 365 days Duration of Norton Antivirus annual subscription
- 40 days Trial period of WinRAR free version
What Is a Software License and What Types Are There?
License Definition
A software license is a legal agreement defining the terms of use and distribution for a specific software product. For example, the GNU GPL version 3 license, released in 2007, permits free copying and modification of the program, provided the same rights are preserved for all users.
The license governs user and developer rights, restricting or expanding permissions for installation, copying, modification, and commercial use. Without a license, software use is considered copyright infringement.
License Types
There are two main license categories: proprietary and free. Proprietary licenses, such as Microsoft Windows 11, which starts at 12,000 rubles per license, restrict user rights by forbidding code changes and requiring payment for use. Commercial licenses like Adobe Creative Cloud typically operate via subscription—starting at 1,800 rubles per month—with mandatory annual renewal.
Free licenses, such as the Mozilla Public License (MPL) version 2.0 used by LibreOffice since 2012, grant users the right to freely use, modify, and distribute software while maintaining certain requirements for source code openness.
- Proprietary licenses: Microsoft Windows 11, starting at 12,000 ₽;
- Free licenses: LibreOffice under MPL 2.0 since 2012;
- Commercial subscriptions: Adobe Creative Cloud from 1,800 ₽ per month with annual renewal.
How Does a License Affect Software Usage?
Restrictions in Proprietary Software
Proprietary licenses strictly limit user rights to modify, copy, and distribute software. For example, Microsoft Office 2026 cannot be legally copied or modified without permission from the rights holder, with license prices starting around 7,000 rubles for an annual subscription. Furthermore, the Windows 11 Home license allows installation on only one device, restricting use across multiple computers.
Advantages of Free Software
Free software, such as VLC Media Player licensed under GPL v2, allows users to freely modify and distribute the source code. This enables not only free use but also adaptation to specific needs. This openness often fosters a community of users and developers, improving software quality and functionality without limits on installations or distribution.
- Microsoft Office 2026 – license with restrictions on copying and modifications, price from 7,000 ₽ per year;
- Windows 11 Home – license for a single installation on one device;
- VLC Media Player (GPL v2) – free software with rights for free use and code modification;
- Free software does not limit the number of installations or distribution, unlike proprietary software.
What Risks and Limitations Arise from Choosing the Wrong License?
Choosing the wrong software license can lead to serious legal and technical consequences, including fines, limited support, and bans on commercial use.
Legal Risks
In Russia, using unlicensed software risks fines up to 100,000 rubles under Article 146 of the Criminal Code (2026). If a user employs a free version with a license restricting commercial use, such as Kaspersky Free, in a business setting, this can trigger legal claims and lawsuits. Licenses that prohibit modification or distribution also require strict compliance to avoid copyright violations and subsequent penalties.
Technical Limitations
Incorrect license choice often results in lack of full technical support. For example, Kaspersky Free does not offer phone support, limiting rapid problem resolution. Additionally, free versions may have functional or update restrictions, weakening security and stability. Users needing advanced features and timely support should select licenses with official subscriptions and service guarantees.
- Fines for unlicensed software: up to 100,000 rubles (Article 146 of Criminal Code, 2026)
- No phone support in Kaspersky Free
- Restrictions on commercial use in free licenses
How to Verify Software Licenses and What to Consider When Buying?
Where to Check Licenses
You can verify software licenses through official manufacturer websites. For instance, Microsoft offers this via the Microsoft Store account, showing purchase history and active licenses. Adobe also provides subscription and license verification on the Adobe Creative Cloud portal.
When purchasing Windows 11 or Microsoft Office, the license is confirmed by a unique key activated in the Microsoft account. Adobe Photoshop 2026 licenses are handled through a subscription service with monthly payments starting at 1,500 rubles. Electronic licenses with keys help eliminate risks of counterfeit or illegal software.
What to Consider When Buying
- License type: one-time purchase of Adobe Photoshop 2026 costs about 60,000 rubles; subscription from 1,500 rubles per month;
- Duration: subscriptions require regular renewal; one-time licenses are perpetual;
- Seller: official resellers guarantee license authenticity and provide electronic keys;
- Compatibility: ensure the license fits your operating system version and device.
When and Why Does a License Stop Working or Restrict the User?
License Expiration
A software license stops working if its term expires or the subscription is not renewed. For example, Norton Antivirus stops updating 365 days after activation if renewal is not paid. These limits are important to maintain software relevance and security but may cause loss of access to updates and protection.
Functional Restrictions
Many free software versions restrict functionality or usage time without license purchase. For instance, WinRAR offers a 40-day free period, after which a license costing about 2,000 rubles is required for unrestricted use. Additionally, licenses often limit the number of devices the software can be installed on, which can pose significant obstacles for businesses and active home users.
- Norton Antivirus: 365 days of updates without renewal
- WinRAR: 40 days free use, then license ≈ 2,000 rubles
- Licenses limiting device count: usually from 1 to 5 installations
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to use Microsoft Office for free?
How can I tell if a program has a free license?
What should I do if a program’s license has expired?
Can free software be used for commercial purposes?
Key Takeaways
- A license defines user rights and restrictions for software
- Proprietary and free licenses have different usage terms
- Using illegal software entails fines and legal risks
- Verifying licenses through official sources reduces risks
- License expiration limits access to updates and features