Background Intellectual Property Definition

Intellectual property (IP) is a term referring to a number of distinct types of creations of the mind for which a set of exclusive rights are recognized under law. The term intellectual property reflects the idea that this type of property is the product of creativity, and that these rights are designed to protect the expression of this creativity.

There are four major types of intellectual property: patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Each type of IP has its own unique features and benefits, but they all share the goal of providing protection for the creators or owners of intellectual property.

Patents provide protection for inventions, which are new and useful products or processes. A patent gives its owner the right to exclude others from making, using, or selling the invention for a period of time. In order to obtain a patent, an inventor must file a patent application with the US Patent and Trademark Office.

Trademarks protect words, phrases, logos, or other symbols that identify a particular product or service. A trademark can be registered with the USPTO, which gives its owner certain legal rights, including the exclusive right to use the mark in connection with the sale of goods or services.

Copyrights protect original works of authorship, such as books, movies, music, and artwork. Copyright law provides creators with a set of exclusive rights, including the right to make copies of their work, to distribute it publicly, and to create derivative works based on it