What does a Trademark protect?

A trademark specifically protects a brand name, which includes logos, slogans, and any other identifiers that distinguish goods or services of one entity from those of others. The primary purpose of a trademark is to prevent consumer confusion about the source of products or services. By registering a trademark, businesses gain exclusive rights to use their brand name in connection with their products or services, thus ensuring that consumers can identify and trust the quality associated with that name.

In contrast, a business plan outlines the strategy for a business's operation and does not provide intellectual property protection. Intellectual property as a broader category encompasses various types of creations, including patents, copyrights, and trademarks, but does not pinpoint the specific protection offered by a trademark. Trade secrets involve confidential business information that provides a competitive edge but are distinct from trademarks, which focus on brand identity rather than internal business processes or formulas.