Essential Updates on 3CX Licensing for 2025
As part of its strategic vision for 2025, 3CX is implementing crucial updates to its licensing structure that will affect how trial keys, commercial key replacements, and hosting on 4SC licenses are managed. These changes are designed to streamline operations and improve user experience. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the new policies and what they mean for existing and prospective users.
Changes to Trial Keys: From 4SC PRO to 8SC PRO
The first major update pertains to the trial keys. Effective from Monday, 28 April 2025, trial keys will now be issued as 8SC PRO licenses, replacing the previous 4SC PRO designation. This transition marks a significant shift in how trial periods are handled.
One of the most notable changes is the reduction of the trial key validity period. Previously, users enjoyed a two-month trial period; however, this has been cut down to just one month. This change aims to encourage prompt decision-making for those considering a full subscription. It’s important to note that any trial keys generated before this date will remain unchanged and continue under their original terms.
Key Replacement Policies for Commercial Subscriptions
Another significant update involves the key replacement function for commercial subscriptions. Originally intended to facilitate upgrades from trial to commercial licenses, this function has inadvertently led to complications. Many users have been replacing commercial keys unnecessarily, causing confusion and account management issues.
Moving forward, commercial subscription keys will no longer be eligible for replacement. Existing users are encouraged to renew their keys when their subscription is nearing its end, rather than opting for a new key, which can be done through the customer and partner portal. This adjustment is aimed at reducing the frequency of unnecessary account creations and enhancing system stability.
However, the “Replace Key” function within the Admin Console will still be available for specific scenarios, such as upgrading from a free license to a commercial license. It’s important to remember that commercial keys cannot be replaced under any circumstances.
Hosting Changes for 4SC Keys
For users with existing 3CX Hosted 4SC subscriptions, it’s crucial to ensure that both your license and hosting subscriptions remain active to retain your hosting capabilities. If your hosting subscription expires, you will have the following options:
- Self-host your system.
- Upgrade to an 8SC PRO subscription to maintain hosting services.
If you are considering adding hosting to a new key, be advised that you can no longer add 3CX hosting to new or existing non-hosted or expired hosting 4SC license key subscriptions. To integrate 3CX Hosting, you must choose one of the following two options:
- Upgrade to an 8SC PRO subscription.
- If you have fewer than 10 users, you may transition to the 3CX SMB FREE plan.
Alternatively, for users wishing to remain on a 4SC license, you can self-host your system or utilize a different cloud provider for your hosting needs.
Stay Updated with 3CX Developments
To keep abreast of further changes and developments within the 3CX ecosystem, be sure to follow our official channels. Engaging with our pages on Twitter and LinkedIn will ensure you receive timely updates and insights.
In summary, the licensing changes being implemented by 3CX in 2025 are designed to improve user experience and streamline operations. By understanding these updates, users can better navigate their subscription options and make informed decisions for their businesses.
Source Article:https://www.3cx.com/blog/news/licensing-updates/
