Starting January 1, 2022, NI software moved to a subscription model. The subscription model gives you access to software on an annual basis rather than one upfront perpetual license purchase. This document describes how the subscription model affects the way you develop and deploy software.
Developing applications involves using an NI development environment like LabVIEW or TestStand to create a deliverable.
Deploying applications is handing the deliverable over to an end user who will interact with the deliverable but not modify its code.
The NI subscription model affects development licenses. There are several different licenses available depending on how you need to deploy applications to your end users, and the NI subscription model does not affect deployment. Refer to the following table to understand which deployment scenario is appropriate for you, and how subscription affects each scenario.
License to Use | License Description | |
|---|---|---|
I need to deploy an application for an end user. I do not want my end user to have to worry about licensing. | A perpetual run-time engine license, if required by the software you use | A perpetual run-time engine license is free and is not affected by subscription. For instance, if you deploy an executable to your end user and decide not to renew your subscription, your end user application will not be affected. This is the least complex deployment scenario. You simply build an executable that you give to an end user. The application is likely faster and less memory intensive. In addition, compiled code is obfuscated to protect your intellectual property. If your application was developed using software that requires a deployment license to execute, the perpetual run-time engine license alone is insufficient for your end user’s licensing needs. Continue to the next row in the table for a more appropriate option. |
My application was developed using software that requires a deployment license to distribute. | A perpetual deployment license | The perpetual deployment license has a one-time cost and is not affected by subscription. Once you purchase and deploy this license, your end user application will not be affected. Deployment licenses continue to be perpetual licenses and do not require annual renewal. |
I need to deploy an application for a user who needs to be able to modify, repair, or view the code as part of the requirements for final delivery. | A perpetual debug/deployment license This license is also referred to as a debug license | A debug/deployment license has a one-time cost and is not affected by subscription. Once you purchase and deploy a debug/deployment license, your end user application will not be affected. These licenses include a complete installation of the NI software you used to create your application, along with your code, that your end user can use to debug your application. |