Definition
Copyright is a legal right that protects original works of authorship, such as text, music, art, and software code, from unauthorized copying.
Why It Matters Legally
Copyright often overlaps with patents in technology products, for example protecting software code while a patent protects its function. Understanding the boundary helps companies protect each aspect appropriately.
Example Use Case
A software company relies on copyright to protect its source code and on patents to protect the underlying methods.
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Related Terms
Intellectual Property, Patent, Trademark, Trade Secret, Software Patent