[johannes1234321]

The difference between "Gewerbe" and "Freiberufler" ist quite grey. I'm the software field I have often seen the distinction between creating software on your own (creative/artistic work - freier Beruf) vs. implementing other's requirements (production - Gewerbe) but in each case it depends on the tax officer looking at the files.

[cntlzw]

Yes, unfortunately. With a degree in CS you might get away with Katalogberuf: no Gewerbe, no Gewerbesteuer

[rad_gruchalski]

You don’t need a degree anymore. Experience comparable to a degree, documented with proper work contracts and references gets you there too. Source: myself, not German citizen, living and working in Germany as Freiberufler (alongside other things).