In general, all computer software is copyrighted and protected under
federal law, and should be treated as you would a published book or
commercial video. No programs can be reproduced or distributed without
the explicit written permission of the publisher and/or copyright
holder.
While it is legally acceptable to make a single
archive copy of a commercial software program to prevent against loss
of the original, it is never acceptable to install a copy licensed for
single use on more than one computer. Installation of the same
software program on multiple computers requires the purchase of
multiple copies or the arrangement of a Volume Licensing Agreement that
covers that specific number of machines.
See also USF's Technology Resources Appropriate Use Policy.
For Open Source programs that are distributed free of charge under the
GNU General Public License, it is required that all program files be
unmodified and that the General Public License be distributed with the
software. More information on the General Public License program.
For more information about library reserves, contact reserves@usfca.edu or (415) 422-2662.
Adapted from web materials at Fairfield University.
These pages aim to provide useful information, but cannot provide legal
advice. We cannot warrant that the information is complete or accurate.
The USF Library disclaims all liability to any person for any loss
caused by errors or omissions in this collection of information.
