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Software Duplication &
Use Policy
Wake Forest University licenses
the use of its computer software from a variety of companies. The
University does not own that software or its related documentation
and, unless authorized by the software developer, does not have the
right to reproduce it.
Unauthorized duplication or
use of software violates U.S. copyright law and exposes the individuals
involved and the University to possible civil and criminal liability.
While licensing agreements differ slightly from one software company
to another, the license fee generally entitles the licensee to use
one copy of the software on one computer. It is usually legal to make
a working copy to use with a floppy disk system or to copy onto the
hard disk. The original may be kept in a safe place as a backup, and
it is usually legal to have a copy of the program included with your
system backup. Unless specifically authorized by the license agreement,
it is not legal to have copies of the software running simultaneously
on multiple machines or to use a single copy on a local area network.
The best policy for students,
faculty, and staff to follow is that copying software for use on additional
machines is prohibited unless told otherwise by an authorized individual.
The University does not require, request, or condone unauthorized
copying or use of computer software and such action is considered
not to be taken in the course of employment. As a result, the University
cannot provide legal defense for individuals accused of making unauthorized
copies of software. If the University is sued or fined because of
unauthorized copying or use by students, faculty, or staff, it will
be required to seek payment from the individuals. They may also be
subject to disciplinary action that may include dismissal. University
policy requires that all students, faculty, and staff abide by the
law and University contractual obligations.
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