This digest presents a reprint of an article which addresses the issue of the rights of computer software owners to duplicate materials. A conservative approach to software copyright is taken which looks to how the law will likely be interpreted, rather than waiting for the definitive decision by a court. Three major issues involved with software duplication are discussed: back-up copies, multiple loading or booting from one disk onto multiple machines at the same time, and networks. It is concluded that: (1) although back-up copies (number uncertain) are allowed for use on a second machine in the event the original fails, the copy is not to be used on a second machine at the same time as the original; (2) in the absence of a license that explicitly permits loading multiple computers with the contents from one disk for use at the same time, users would likely be in violation of the copyright law if they did so; and (3) in the absence of a network license, users would likely be in violation of copyright laws if they downloaded a program to multiple stations at the same time from their network. A 13-item reading list completes the digest. (JB)