What are the different types of intellectual property?

Intellectual property (IP) is a legal classification for any creations of a person’s mind. It can include inventions, designs, logos, and literary and artistic works. Texas law recognizes four main types of intellectual property: copyrights, patents, trademarks, and trade secrets. Copyrights protect any original works of an author. This covers literary works like novels, musical compositions, artwork, and computer software. Copyright protection can last for many years, depending on the circumstances. Patents are a form of exclusive rights to inventions. In Texas, a patent grants the inventor a limited period of monopoly control over the invention. This prevents others from making or selling the same invention during the patent’s term. Trademarks are a type of brand recognition. They can be words, logos, or other symbols that are associated with a particular company, product, or service. A trademark identifies the source of the product or service and distinguishes it from competitors. Trade secrets are secret information or processes that have economic value to the owner of the secret. In Texas, trade secrets have a broad definition, and can include a wide range of information, such as formulas, techniques, processes, or customer information. This information is kept secret in order to maintain its value. Overall, intellectual property law in Texas recognizes four main types of IP: copyrights, patents, trademarks, and trade secrets. Copyrights protect any original works of an author, while patents grant exclusive rights to inventions. Trademarks are symbols associated with a particular company or product, and trade secrets are secret information or processes that have economic value.

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What are the different types of intellectual property?

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