Patents are legal rights granted to inventors, providing them exclusive rights to produce, use, and sell their for a limited time.

Software patents protect inventions related to computer programs, algorithms, and .

Patents grant the owner a temporary on their invention, allowing them to control market entry and maximize financial returns.

Hardware patents protect inventions related to devices and equipment.

For an invention to be patentable, it must be , meaning it cannot be previously known or used by others before the patent application date.

The influence of software patents extends to startups and established companies alike, impacting and fostering environments where innovation can thrive.