Proceedings of the 9th International Conference on Research in Social Sciences
Year: 2024
DOI:
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From Code to Contract: How Copyright Law Shapes Software Agreements
Yvonne Wamuca Kimani
ABSTRACT:
This paper investigates the role of copyright law in the classification and interpretation of software contracts. As software increasingly underpins modern technology, the legal framework governing ownership, licensing, and usage rights has become critical. Copyright law, which protects the intellectual property inherent in software, interacts with various types of contracts, from traditional licensing agreements to emerging models like open-source and cloud-based contracts. This study explores how courts and legislatures define the boundaries between copyright protection and contractual obligations, particularly in areas such as the distinction between software code and user agreements. Through an analysis of key case law, legal principles, and industry practices, this paper highlights the challenges in applying copyright law to software contracts and offers potential solutions to address legal ambiguities. This paper aims to provide a clearer understanding of the legal landscape governing software transactions to ensure the protection of both creators’ rights and users’ interests.
keywords: Copyright Law, Intellectual Property, Legal Classification, Licensing Agreements, Software Contracts