Choosing the right Edition and License option can make a big difference in your JAWS®, ZoomText®, or Fusion™ software experience. Whether you’re a professional, a home user, or an organization providing assistive technology to your team, we offer flexible licensing options that fit your needs, environment, and budget.
Let’s review the key differences and help you find your best fit.
Which Software Are You Using?
Freedom Scientific offers three powerful accessibility solutions:
- JAWS®: The world’s leading screen reader that provides speech and Braille output, empowering users who are blind or have low vision to navigate digital environments independently.
- ZoomText®: Advanced screen magnification and reading software that delivers crystal-clear text, intuitive navigation, and customizable visual enhancements for people with low vision.
- Fusion™: A seamless combination of JAWS and ZoomText that’s perfect for users with changing or progressive vision loss, offering the benefits of both magnification and screen reading in one solution.
Understanding Editions: Where You’ll Use Them
At Freedom Scientific, we offer three Edition types. The right one for you depends on how and where you’ll use the software. No matter which Edition you choose, you can install the software on up to three personal computers per user.
The Professional Edition: Versatile and Built for Work
No matter which software you’re using at work, school, or across multiple devices, the Professional Edition is for you. This Edition is flexible enough for professionals, students, and organizations that need to install the software on multiple devices.
Professional Editions can be purchased for a single user or larger groups within an organization. Single-user Editions are sold individually, while multi-user Editions are sold in bundles of five seats or more.
One of the biggest advantages of the Professional Edition is its support for remote access and network environments, including Citrix and Remote Desktop. This is built into our Subscription model and can also be added to Perpetual License renewal options.
The Home Edition: Perfect for Personal Use
The Home Edition is designed specifically for personal, non-commercial use. Whether you’re using the software to navigate your home computer, read digital documents, or explore online content, the Home Edition gives you the flexibility to work across your home setup.
Often, state rehabilitation agencies choose to purchase the Home Edition for their clients. It is available either as a one-time Perpetual license or as a Subscription with flexible renewal terms. Home Edition is a great option for anyone who wants to build their skills or stay connected using our powerful accessibility software from the comfort of their own home.
The Home Annual Edition: For Qualifying Users
The Home Annual Edition provides qualifying home users with an affordable way to stay connected to the latest features, updates, and support. This Edition is Subscription-only and stands apart from standard Home Editions. It’s a unique, discounted option that’s only available to users who meet specific eligibility criteria.
How to Choose the Right Edition
If you’re not sure where to start, ask yourself:
- Will I be using the software for work, school, or personal tasks at home?
- Do I need remote access, or will I be using the software across multiple shared devices?
- Am I eligible for the Home Annual program? (Give us a call to find out!)
Here’s a quick way to think about it:
- If you’re using our software at work or school, the Professional Edition is the best fit for you.
- If you’re part of a large organization or require customizable deployment options, a multi-user Professional Edition with Subscription is likely the best option.
- If you are providing software for home use to clients as a rehabilitation agency or nonprofit organization, the Home Edition is the right fit.
- If you’re a qualifying home user looking for the most affordable option, the Home Annual Edition is made for you.
Renewal Options: How You Want to Pay and Stay Current
Once you’ve chosen your Edition type, you’ll need to decide how you want to keep your software current. Freedom Scientific offers two renewal License options: Subscription and Perpetual.
Subscription: Easy Way to Stay Up to Date
If you like simplicity and peace of mind, Subscription is the way to go. Subscriptions are available in 1-, 2-, or 3-year terms and always include software updates, security patches, and technical support.
Subscription licenses for the Professional Edition also include built-in support for network environments, such as Citrix and Remote Desktop, at no extra charge.
If you want predictable costs, always current software, and a hassle-free way to stay updated, a Subscription is a great choice.
Why Do So Many People Choose Subscription?
It’s simple: Subscriptions take the pressure off. You don’t have to worry about falling behind or missing out on new features. You’ll always be on the latest version, you’ll always have support, and the upfront cost is typically lower.
Plus, Subscriptions provide flexible renewal terms, enabling you to choose the option that best suits your needs.
Perpetual: One-Time Purchase; SMA Required
Prefer to own your software forever? A Perpetual License might be right for you. Perpetual Licenses are a one-time purchase and require a 2-year Software Maintenance Agreement (SMA) that covers updates and support for the term.
After the SMA expires, you can continue using the software indefinitely; however, updates and support will require renewing the SMA.
One thing to note: Perpetual Licenses do not automatically support network environments, such as Citrix or shared devices, unless you purchase remote access separately.
Putting It All Together: Quick Comparison
- Home License
- Best for personal use, school, or home.
- The best option for state agencies looking to provide software to clients at home.
- Available as a Subscription or Perpetual License
- Professional License
- Best for organizations, shared environments, or individual users at work or school.
- Available as a Subscription or Perpetual License
- Home Annual License
- Best for qualified home users.
- Available as a Subscription Only
Which Renewal Option is Right for You?
Still not sure which option makes the most sense? Let’s make it simple:
- If you want to set it and forget it (with no version tracking and no hassle), a Subscription is probably your best bet. You’ll always have the latest features, automatic updates, and built-in support.
- If you prefer to make a one-time purchase and like the idea of long-term ownership, then Perpetual might be a better fit. Just keep in mind you’ll need to purchase a new SMA to stay current after the term ends.
- If you think you might qualify for the special Home Annual License, we recommend giving us a quick call. Our team can confirm your eligibility and walk you through the next steps.
Ready to Get Started?
Here are the two key takeaways:
- Your Edition determines where and how you’ll use the software.
- Your License Type determines how you’ll pay for and maintain it.
Need assistance? We’re here to help you find your perfect fit. Contact us today!
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