Hiades Ltd$,$ a UK based company, has developed a very innovative technological solution that unifies all the operative and administrative systems with an easy$-$to$-$use interface adapted to all pilotage requirements. The software is being used by several European Port Authorities. In Europe, software is usually copyrighted, but Hiades would like to expand to the USA. However, in the meantime, Hiades found that their software is being used by some companies without any license.

a$)$ Critically analyse the different types of protection for the software and advise Hiades how to obtain the best possible protection for their software worldwide.

b$)$ Advise Hiades about their options using relevant legal Intellectual Property principles.