I am sure you have heard of the terms Software and Hardware when talking about computers. There is also, Malware and Ransomware, as it turns out there is a lot more “ware” terms that are unknown to most. Here we list the top 10 computerware which you have probably never heard of.
10. Ageware
In the video game industry, the term “ageware” applies to video games originally developed for an older console, which has been ported for playing on a contemporary game console. Most video games which can be run on any device through an emulator would fall into this category. Examples of such would be Pokemon Yellow running on a Gameboy Color emulator inside of Windows 10.
9. Brochureware
Interestingly enough, most computer users have dealt with brochureware throughout their online existence. Brochureware merely indicates a type of vaporware – worthless products or investments – accompanied by an aggressive marketing campaign. In most cases, there will be a brochure included, hence the term brochureware.
8. Cardware
In the software world, there are quite a few programs that are available free of charge. However, some developers would link a “thank you” for their efforts in the form of a postcard. This is where the cardware term comes from, as it pertains to a piece of software that is free to use as long as the user sends the developer a postcard.
7. Crippleware
Ever since software piracy became a problematic trend, software developers have tried multiple solutions to trick users into paying the full price. Crippleware is a tactic that disables a vital component of particular software, unless the user pays for a license. An example would be Virtual DJ Studio which does not allow saving of tracks unless a license is paid.
6. Fritterware
Not every piece of software is “useful” to the people looking to make use of it. Fritterware indicates a piece of software with useless features. Moreover, these types of software only exist to make users waste a lot of time, which can be quite frustrating.
5. Meatware
Unlike what one would expect, the term “meatware” has little to do with software or hardware. Developers use the term “meatware” to indicate the human brain. A disturbing term to some, yet it is rather accurate.
4. Oprhanware
Developers are often forced to abandon their software projects sooner or later. Orphanware refers to a piece of software that is no longer actively maintained by its developer, nor is it available for commercial purchase. This also means users of this software are unable to get help or support for the product.
3. Psychedelicware
Just because this term of computerware has a strange name, does not mean it is harmful in any way. Psychedelicware refers to software designed to make pretty images in a kaleidoscopic manner.
2. Scuttleware
Most computer users have come across a program that is free to use until a certain period of time has expired. This is known as scuttleware, which will either self-destruct or cease to function properly unless the user pays for a license once the timer has expired. In a way, scuttleware is the same as trialware and has no negative impact on the user’s computer if the license is not purchased.
1. Vampireware
As the name suggests, vampireware is not something anyone wants to deal with. This type of project effectively sucks the life out of anyone who is assigned to it. Moreover, this term also refers to software projects that never see the light of day despite spending months or years of research and development.
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