Which type of intellectual property protection is best suited for a new software program?

A copyright is best suited for protecting a new software program because it grants the creator exclusive rights to the expression of ideas within the software, such as the code and the user interface design. Copyright protection is specifically designed for creative works, which includes literary and artistic works, and software code falls within this category.

In the context of software, copyright helps prevent unauthorized reproduction, distribution, and modification of the code, ensuring that creators can control how their work is used. This means that if someone uses the software without permission, the copyright holder has the right to take legal action against them.

While a utility patent might protect a novel functional aspect of the software, it requires a complex application process and is typically more suited for inventions rather than the software itself. A trademark protects brand names, logos, and slogans used in commerce, which does not apply directly to the software program itself unless you are discussing branding aspects. Additionally, a design patent protects the ornamental design of a functional item rather than the functionality of software. Therefore, copyright is the most appropriate choice for safeguarding the expression of a software program.