Fonts are Software

It’s a lot easier to understand font licensing if you remember that fonts are software.

Fonts are Licensed

By purchasing the font software, you are purchasing a licence that gives you the right to use the fonts in accordance with the Fontsmith Standard End User Agreement (EULA). The EULA explains what you can and cannot do.
Fontsmith retains ownership of the design of the typeface and all intellectual property rights.

What does “Licensee" mean?

The Licensee is the individual or entity that initially licenses the font software.
For example if John Smith at Smith Ltd licenses the font, the Licensee is Smith Ltd.
If Jane Smith, Design Consultant licenses the font, the Licensee is Jane Smith.

What does “number of users (computers)" mean?

Number of users (computers) means that you have the right to install and use the fonts on the number of computers specified in your licence.
All licenced computers have to be from the same organisation or entity.
For example with a 10 user (computer) licence, you can install the fonts on a maximum of 10 computers at your company.

 

Cost per user (computer)

The cost per user (computer) decreases, the larger the licence.

You can easily check the cost per user by adding the font to your basket and clicking Proceed to Checkout. Then add the required number of users (computers) in the Number of Users box and click Update Basket. You will then be able to see both the price per user (computer) and the total cost.

 

Servers & Networks

If your company uses a networked system or the font software is located on a server, you must purchase a licence for the amount of computers capable of accessing the fonts via that network.

For example if you put the fonts on a network, with 25 computers on that network, you must purchase a 25 user (computer) licence.

If you put the fonts on a network with 25 computers on that network, but only 5 computers are a capable of using the fonts, then you can purchase a 5 user (computer) licence.


What does "number of locations" mean?

Locations mean separate geographical addresses within the same organisation or entity. All licenced computers must be from the same organisation or entity.

For example you may licence the fonts for use on 10 computers at 5 locations, meaning 5 geographical locations belonging to the same company, and on 10 computers in total.

If your company uses a networked system or the font software is located on a server, you must purchase the appropriate number of locations.

For example, 25 networked computers are at 5 different office locations and all are capable of using the fonts. You must purchase a licence for 25 users (computers) and 5 locations.

I use a laptop – what licence do I need?

For example: you have purchased a 5 user (computer) licence. You can then use the fonts on up to 5 separate computers, such as 4 desktop computers and 1 laptop.

If you licence the fonts for use at 1 location, then you can use the fonts at only one location. However, you may use the fonts on a laptop at multiple locations, provided that the laptop is owned by the person, organisation or entity that licensed the fonts.


Can I share my licence?

No. You cannot share any of your End User Licences with other organisations or individuals.
This is why we offer a cost effective 1 user licence option.

Can I give the fonts to my suppliers?

No. It is strictly illegal to make copies of the font software for other people or organisations.
You may not supply the font software to any third party, including a commercial printer or service bureau.

You may embed the fonts in a document for printing such as a PDF.  


Will there be any other fees?

No. When you purchase an End User Licence (EULA), you can use the font with no further fees to pay, provided you do not exceed the number of users and locations specified in your licence or breach the licence agreement.