Copyright treats software as a "literary work," meaning that just as a book, only the rightsholder can copy, alter, distribute, or display it, or authorize others to do so. Notably, the End User Licensing Agreement often gives the user more leeway.
Copyright infringement of software.
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The Computer Software Copyright Act of 1980 extended copyright protection to computer programs, recognizing them as literary works under U.S. copyright law. This legislation aimed to safeguard the rights of software developers by preventing unauthorized reproduction and distribution of their programs. It also clarified that both source code and object code are eligible for copyright protection. Overall, the act helped foster innovation in the software industry by providing legal protection for creators.
Laura Chimienti has written: 'Lineamenti del nuovo diritto d'autore' -- subject(s): Copyright 'La tutela del software nel diritto d'autore' -- subject(s): Computer programs, Computer software, Copyright, Law and legislation
Software is protected by copyright as a literary work.
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Modern copyright dates from the Statute of Anne, 1709.
Public domain software
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In the US, current copyright legislation is found in Circular 92 (link below).
The Copyright Designs and Patents Act defines patents for computer hardware and software, and copyright on software.