If I invent something do I have to patent it before I make or sell it?

If I invent something do I have to patent it before I make or sell it?

Matt Dixon (Partner) gives expert video advice on: What is an 'invention'?; Can I tell anyone about my invention?; If I invent something do I have to patent it before I make or sell it? and more...

No, you don't have to file a patent. A patent just allows you to stop other people from making the product that you have protected. It doesn't allow you to make that product. Other people may have patents that prevent you from making your product, and you might want to find out about those before you decide to set the step of launching a product.