> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://notes.kodekloud.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Proprietary Software

> Proprietary software is distributed under restrictive licenses, with exclusive rights to the source code retained by the publisher.

## Proprietary Software

Proprietary software refers to applications and operating systems distributed under restrictive licenses, where the publisher retains exclusive rights to the source code. In the early days of computing, vendors enforced legal protections—often via non-disclosure agreements (NDAs)—to prevent unauthorized access or modification.

<Callout icon="lightbulb" color="#1CB2FE">
  Users must agree to End User License Agreements (EULAs) before installing or using proprietary software.
</Callout>

<Frame>
  ![The image compares proprietary and open-source software, using icons and labels to represent each type. The proprietary software is on the left, and the open-source software is on the right with a lock symbol.](https://kodekloud.com/kk-media/image/upload/v1752882540/notes-assets/images/Open-Source-for-Beginners-Proprietary-Software/proprietary-vs-open-source-software-comparison.jpg)
</Frame>

### Key Characteristics

* **Closed Source**: The source code is not publicly available.
* **Licensed Use**: Redistribution, modification, and reverse engineering are restricted.
* **Vendor Support**: Updates, patches, and technical support are provided by the owning company.

### Popular Proprietary Operating Systems

| Operating System | Vendor          | License Type        |
| ---------------- | --------------- | ------------------- |
| macOS            | Apple Inc.      | Proprietary License |
| Windows          | Microsoft Corp. | Proprietary License |

<Callout icon="triangle-alert" color="#FF6B6B">
  Relying on proprietary software can lead to vendor lock-in and ongoing licensing costs. Assess long-term maintenance and upgrade fees before committing.
</Callout>

## References

* [macOS Official Site](https://www.apple.com/macos/)
* [Microsoft Windows](https://www.microsoft.com/windows/)
* [Software License](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Software_license)

<CardGroup>
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