Quick overview:
Buying new software can quickly lead to relatively high costs. This is why it is becoming increasingly popular for companies to buy used software. The following article explains what is meant by used software, what you need to bear in mind and what advantages it offers.
What is used software?
The term used software was initially viewed somewhat critically as it gave the wrong impression. Many people perceive the term "used" as pejorative and less good than "new". However Used software This has nothing to do with the fact that it is a worn-out product. In terms of content and function, it is no different from new software.
The only difference is that there is a prior purchaser (also known as the first purchaser). This means that someone has bought the software new and is now selling it to a third party. Incidentally, this is also the reason why used software costs considerably less than new software.
In summary, it can therefore be said that used software is the licenses that are left over when companies cut jobs, restructure or perhaps even go bankrupt.
ImageMore and more companies are using used software instead of buying new software. Image source: stux via pixabay.com
Advantages of used software
One advantage of used software has already been mentioned: it is much cheaper than new software. Companies, public authorities and private individuals can therefore save costs by purchasing used software. It is therefore irrelevant whether you want to buy used software as a small company or a large corporation.
Standard software such as Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office or even Windows 10. Although they are always in high demand, used versions are between 20 and 50 % cheaper than new ones.
If you want to get away even more cheaply, you can also opt for a previous version. If it doesn't have to be the latest product on the market, this is also an option. In most cases, the differences between the new versions are not that significant. On the contrary: most users do not even use the full range of functions. That's why, for example, a version from 2019 instead of the latest one will do.
Some companies also deliberately buy outdated software, not to save costs, but because there would otherwise be compatibility problems. Older systems often only work with older versions of software. If new software were purchased, certain functions or the entire product would not work. There is therefore a high demand for used software.
This also creates profitable opportunities for the other side: If a company has unused licenses that it does not need itself, it can simply and easily sell them on to third parties online and even make a little profit.
What do you have to consider with used software?
Many people who deal with the topic of used software first ask the question: Is this even legal? The answer to this question is a resounding yes. On July 3, 2012, the decision was made once and for all that used software may be resold. The ruling was made by the European Court of Justice because there were disputes and discussions about this.
The prerequisite is that the seller has a so-called unlimited right of use has. This has to do with whether the software was purchased on a data carrier or via download.
This is based on the principle of exhaustion, which stipulates that a software manufacturer only has a one-time distribution right for its products. This means that his right is exhausted upon the sale of his software and the associated payment. Even through license agreements, the manufacturer may not prohibit a buyer from passing the software on to third parties as used software at any time.
The sale of individual licenses that you do not need yourself is also legal. This is referred to as splitting volume licenses: You keep the licenses that you need and want to use yourself, the rest go to the market.
What about maintenance work, repairs and updates? In fact, buyers only have the right to updates and repairs by the manufacturer. Maintenance contracts cannot be transferred from the first user to a third party.
Conclusion
Used software offers many advantages by helping companies to save money and providing an opportunity to pass on unused software to third parties for a fee. The purchase and sale of used software is legal and regulated by the European Court of Justice. Therefore, people who have an indefinite right to use software do not encounter legal difficulties.

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