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If I buy a non-cd (download only) software, and...

by TimothyW
6 replies
I want to put it in 2 computers, can I? How? Or must I pay for it twice?

Also, if the computer I've put it on crashes + dies, must I buy the software again?

Please advise.

Thanks.

-- TW
#buy #download #noncd #software
  • Profile picture of the author seasoned
    OK, how should ANYONE here know? Ask the vendor.
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  • Profile picture of the author TimothyW
    It varies? I thought there would be a standard (usual) answer.
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    • Profile picture of the author Dan C. Rinnert
      Originally Posted by -- TW View Post

      It varies? I thought there would be a standard (usual) answer.
      No, it varies by the seller.

      In the case of a crash, it's your responsibility to keep a backup. If the software is activated by a registration code, it's your responsibility to keep that somewhere safe. If you have a license key, a lot of times you can just download the software again and activate it with your license key. If there's no registration code or anything, some vendors may allow you to re-download if they have a record of your purchase. But, mainly, the responsibility is on you to keep a backup and keep your license key is a safe place.

      As for the number of computers you can install on, that varies by seller too. I have several software packages where I am allowed to install on two machines. Typically, this lets you keep one copy on a desktop machine and another on a laptop. Others may limit you to one machine.

      Some software may be limited to the number of output devices. For example, there are a number of fonts that are limited to two output devices, one for proofing and one for production output. You could install them on multiple machines. Others may have a limit such as two printers or five machines. Nowadays, with web design and the like, more font vendors are licensing based on computers, not output devices.

      Some software manufacturers may base their licenses on the number of computers, while others will base it on the number of users, or simultaneous users. If you are the sole user of a piece of software, you may be able to install it on ten computers, if you have that many. On the other hand, some software vendors will require you to have a license for each machine that the software is installed on. Others may limit it to the number in use at a time. So, you could have the software installed on ten machines, but be limited to using two at a time, unless you purchase additional licenses.

      There is no standard answer as there is no standard usage for different software applications. What may be ideal for one type of software or one vendor may not be the same for another.
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  • Profile picture of the author Spencer Jones
    Depends... Check with the software licence and read sales note carefully.

    Spencer Jones
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  • Profile picture of the author seasoned
    TW,

    Here is your "answer"...

    "I want to put it in 2 computers, can I?"

    Some software ties a license to a particular aspect of the computer. SOME software requires different licenses to communicate together. In such a case, this is NOT easily possible! Many vendors DON'T allow this, so it is then not legal! Otherwise, YES!

    "How?"

    Talk to the vendor

    "Or must I pay for it twice?"

    If you don't meet the above criteria, talk to the vendor. SOMETIMES they offer additional licenses for less.

    "Also, if the computer I've put it on crashes + dies, must I buy the software again?"

    In cases where the license is tied to the computer, and there is no provision to change it, or you lose the software or license and there is no reload provision, YES! Talk to the vendor, and s/he may give you a discount.

    Steve
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  • Profile picture of the author KimW
    Yes, It varies, most downloadable software I purchase I either see if it says the number of machines on the sales page before I buy, or I will email the seller first before I purchase and just explain I have 2 or 3 or 4 pcs I switch between and I want to install the software on everyone.
    I have some excellent screensaver making software that lets me install on all my PERSONAL computers.
    As far as the backup, I thik seveal have already answered that.You download the software and immeidately make a backup cd of the software. I usually include a text file of the registration information if that is needed too.
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