Software license types explained
Updated November 1, 2026
"License" covers several different arrangements. Knowing which one you're buying tells you how long it lasts and how many devices it covers.
One-time purchase
You pay once for a specific version, such as Office 2024 or Windows 11 Pro, and keep using it. You don't get the next major version for free, and the publisher eventually stops issuing security updates (the support end date). Windows and Office 2024 products in our store are one-time purchases.
Subscription
You pay for access for a fixed term, usually one year. When the term ends, the software stops working or drops to a limited mode unless you renew. All Autodesk, VPN and antivirus products in our store are 1-year subscriptions.
Per device vs. named user
Per-device licenses (Windows, Office 2024) cover one computer. Named-user licenses (Autodesk) belong to one person, who can sign in on a few of their own devices. Security suites usually cover a number of devices for one household.
