Choosing between Envato regular license vs extended plugin mutliple websites for using plugins across multiple websites can be tricky. The two licenses offer different levels of freedom and restrictions, affecting both project scope and cost. In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of each license, explain the restrictions, and help you make the best choice for your project—whether it’s a personal blog or an e-commerce venture.
Overview of Envato Licensing Options
What Is Envato Market?
Envato Market is a digital marketplace offering a wide range of assets, including WordPress themes, plugins, graphics, templates, and much more. Sites like ThemeForest and CodeCanyon are part of the Envato Market family, and they are popular for high quality plugins and themes that developers and website owners trust.
Understanding Envato Licensing
When purchasing items on Envato Market, you’ll encounter two main license options: Regular License and Extended License. Each license has unique terms that define how you can use and distribute the product. This includes limitations around single versus multiple end products, commercial use, and access control. Selecting the right license is crucial to staying within Envato’s guidelines and making the most of your purchase.
Importance of Choosing the Correct License
Choosing the wrong license can lead to unnecessary expenses, restricted usage, or even legal issues. For example, if you’re using a plugin for a single website, the Regular License might be all you need. However, if you plan to use it for multiple clients or charge end-users for access, you’ll likely need the Extended License. Proper licensing protects you and ensures you’re getting the full value from your purchase.
Exploring the Regular License
What Is an Envato Regular License?
The Regular License is the more commonly chosen option on Envato Market. It’s designed for individuals or small businesses that need a plugin or theme for a single project without commercial distribution. This license is great for personal blogs, informational websites, or small business pages that don’t require users to pay to access content.
Regular License Restrictions
While affordable and accessible, the Regular License has strict limitations:
- Single End Product: You can only use it on one website or project.
- No Commercial Distribution: You can’t charge users to access content enabled by the plugin.
- Restricted to Non-Paywall Content: The Regular License does not allow for any paywalled or subscription-based access, which limits its use in e-commerce or membership sites.
If you try using a Regular License plugin on multiple sites, you’re violating Envato’s policy. For anyone managing multiple sites or handling client projects, this limitation becomes a significant constraint.
Understanding the Extended License
What Is an Envato Extended License?
The Extended License provides more freedom for projects that involve paid access, subscriptions, or usage across multiple end products. Unlike the Regular License, the Extended License allows for commercial usage and removes many restrictions, making it ideal for e-commerce, client projects, and more complex websites.
Flexibility of the Extended License
With the Extended License, you can:
- Charge Users for Access: This license allows you to put content behind a paywall or integrate it into a subscription model.
- Use for Multiple Client Projects: It provides legal flexibility for client projects, especially those involving multiple end products.
- Enhanced Rights for Multiple Websites: You can use it across different sites if they’re part of a single end product or project, like a subscription-based service or e-commerce network.
Envato regular license vs extended plugin mutliple websites
|
Criteria |
Regular License |
Extended License |
| Scope of Use | Limited to one website or single end product | Permits usage for multiple client projects or commercial sites |
| Commercial Usage | Not allowed | Allowed |
| Multiple Website Support | No, restricted to a single site | Yes, if part of a subscription or commercial project |
| End-User Access Restrictions | No paywalls or subscription access | Allows for paywalled and subscription-based access |
| Pricing | Lower cost, affordable for single-site usage | Higher cost, reflecting expanded permissions |
Key Differences Between Regular and Extended Licenses
Project Scope
The Regular License limits the plugin to a single website or project, while the Extended License offers broader flexibility, allowing for commercial use and multiple sites. This difference is crucial if you’re working with clients or handling projects that involve paywalls, subscriptions, or extended user access.
Cost Comparison
While the Regular License is affordable and accessible, the Extended License is significantly more expensive due to its expanded permissions. Think of the cost as an investment—if your project involves multiple clients, e-commerce, or premium content, the Extended License is likely worth it.
Redistribution Rights
Only the Extended License allows redistribution. Under this license, you can incorporate the plugin into a product that you charge for, such as an e-commerce website or a subscription service. This permission is a game-changer for businesses looking to monetize plugins or themes on their platforms.
Specific Scenarios for License Choice
Using a Plugin on Multiple Websites
If you plan to use a plugin across multiple websites, the Extended License is the clear choice. For example, if you manage a network of blogs or client sites and want to use the same plugin across them, the Regular License won’t cover this. The Extended License allows you to apply the plugin across these sites without violating Envato’s policies.
Client Projects and License Choice
Working on client projects often requires more flexibility, especially if your clients intend to use the website for commercial purposes. If you’re creating an e-commerce or subscription-based site for a client, the Extended License is necessary. However, for a single, non-commercial site, the Regular License may suffice.
E-commerce and Resale Projects
For any project where users pay for access—such as a WooCommerce site or a membership portal—the Extended License is mandatory. This license permits commercial use and ensures compliance with Envato’s rules. Trying to use a Regular License for such projects is risky and could lead to license violations.
How to Purchase and Manage Envato Licenses
Purchasing a License on Envato Market
Buying a license on Envato Market is straightforward. Simply navigate to the plugin or theme you need, choose between the Regular and Extended License options, and proceed with the checkout process. Once purchased, your license details are accessible from your Envato account dashboard, allowing you to track and manage your licenses easily.
Managing Your Envato License
Envato provides tools to manage and keep track of all your licenses. From your account dashboard, you can view active licenses, check their scope, and upgrade if necessary. Always ensure you’re following the license terms to avoid compliance issues, especially if you’re expanding or scaling a project.
Comparing Costs, Benefits, and Potential Drawbacks
Financial Implications
The Regular License is cost-effective for simple, single-site projects. However, the Extended License offers long-term value for anyone working on complex or commercial projects that involve multiple websites, end-users, or monetized access. Consider the project’s potential revenue when deciding, as the Extended License might save you from future costs associated with legal or compliance issues.
Benefits of Each License Type
The Regular License is perfect for small projects and one-off websites. It’s affordable and straightforward, making it ideal for personal or hobby sites. The Extended License, on the other hand, is invaluable for professionals who manage multiple sites or need more flexibility in user access. This license type also allows you to monetize content, making it a great fit for e-commerce or subscription-based services.
Potential Drawbacks and Pitfalls
The Regular License is restrictive and unsuitable for commercial projects, while the Extended License can be prohibitively expensive for smaller projects. Before purchasing, consider your current and future project needs. Keep in mind that switching licenses can be costly and complicated, so it’s wise to plan ahead.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Envato regular license vs extended plugin mutliple websites depends on your project’s scope, end-user access, and intended commercial use. If you’re building a single, non-commercial site, the Regular License is likely all you need. However, for projects involving multiple sites, paywalled content, or commercial distribution, the Extended License is essential. Investing in the correct license upfront will save you from future compliance issues and provide peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a Regular License on multiple websites if they’re non-commercial?
No, the Regular License is limited to one website or end product, even if it’s non-commercial.
Is there a refund option if I purchase the wrong license?
Refunds may be available, but it depends on Envato’s policies. Always check the license requirements before purchasing.
How do I upgrade from a Regular to an Extended License?
Upgrading involves purchasing a new Extended License; there isn’t a direct upgrade option.
What happens if I exceed the scope of a Regular License?
Exceeding the license scope can lead to penalties, including possible takedown notices or account suspension.
Are there alternatives to Envato Market for purchasing licenses?
Yes, other marketplaces offer licensing options, but Envato remains a trusted choice due to its high-quality assets and clear licensing terms.
