Understanding Licensing
Artifex has different licensing approaches for our different products. Most of our products are dual-licensed under open source with the GNU AGPLv3 license (the “AGPL” referenced on this page) or with commercial license agreements. The information on this page is designed to help you understand which license type is suitable for you.
* Our commercial license offers flexible options, whether you're deploying our product as a SaaS, integrating it as OEM software, or using it in-house with full technical support.
GNU AGPLv3 Usage Restrictions
The free AGPL license enforces the following conditions:
Producer Line & Copyright
When using our open-source under AGPL, you must prominently mention our open-source and include AGPL license details in the PDF metadata. You must also retain the producer line in all PDFs created or modified using our open-source.
Code Modifications
Any modifications to our open-source must be disclosed under the AGPL, including sharing the modified code with any users interacting with it.
AGPL-Compliant Environments Only
Usage of our open-source Community Edition must be limited to AGPL-compliant environments, where all AGPL requirements are fully respected.
Source Code Disclosure
You cannot deploy our open-source in a network without disclosing your own application’s full source code under AGPL, regardless of whether the network is internal or external, with any users interacting with it.
Can't Comply with AGPLv3?
If you can't meet the requirements of the GNU AGPLv3 above, a commercial license is required.
Enjoy Unrestricted Access with a Commercial License
With a commercial license, you maintain full ownership and control over your products, free from AGPL restrictions. No need to share your proprietary code, and enjoy direct access to our expert support team with free upgrades included.
Full Ownership of your creation
Maintain complete control over your products and how they’re distributed.
No Code Disclosure Required
Keep your proprietary code private without complying with AGPL sharing rules.
No Worries about Audits or IP Concerns
Avoid licensing-related risks and protect your intellectual property.
Dedicated Technical Support Included
Access expert assistance whenever needed, with direct support from our team.
Is the AGPL Right for You?
While open-source software is free, it comes with responsibilities. Review these guidelines to see if it suits your use of Artifex software.
You Can
Under the AGPL, you can alter, duplicate redistribute, and incorporate our source code into your application for free, as long as you comply with the usage restrictions of the AGPL.
You Cannot
Under the AGPL, you may not sublicense our source code or hold Artifex liable for any damages. Open Source software is distributed without any warranty.
Can’t comply with the restrictions above?
Talk to Our SalesEach License is Unique
Each Artifex commercial license is crafted based on your individual use case. However below is a quick overview of our different licensing models.
AGPL
License
- Unlimited distribution with requirements
- Full source code disclosure (including your app code)
- No report needed
- No support available
- Free License
OEM Distribution
License
- Unlimited distribution without requirements
- No need to disclose your code
- Annual reporting on volume of distribution
- Support available
- Per-copy cost with a quarterly minimum fee
Subscription
License
- Unlimited distribution without requirements
- No need to disclose your code
- Annual reporting on volume of distribution (No report needed for internal usage)
- Support available
- Per-copy cost with a quarterly minimum fee
Get Started with a Commercial License
Choose a commercial license and get direct access to our expert support team and direct contact with the engineers.