A term licence is a licence you rent for a period. Support and new versions are always included. If you stop, the software must be removed.
A term licence is a licence you rent for a fixed period, typically a year at a time. It is the opposite of a perpetual licence, where you buy the right to use the software for good. HCL sells the CCB licence for Domino in both forms. The CCX licence for external users is always a term licence.
How does it differ from a perpetual licence?
| Perpetual | Term | |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | You own the right to use it | You rent it for a period |
| Support and updates | Requires a yearly agreement | Always included |
| Domino IQ | Not included | Included |
| Domino Leap | At most 5 applications | Unlimited |
| If you stop | May keep running the old version | The software must be removed |
What does it mean in practice?
With a term licence you always have the right to the newest version. You do not have to buy a separate Subscription and Support agreement. According to HCL, the term licence also gives access to Domino IQ and unlimited use of Domino Leap. The flip side is that you must keep paying. If you stop, you may not keep running the software.
Why does it matter?
The choice affects both cost and which features you get. If you want AI with Domino IQ or many Leap apps, the term licence is the natural choice. If you want to run a stable setup for many years with few changes, a perpetual licence may suit you, as long as all licences stay covered by support. Licence rules and prices may change, so always check with an HCL partner. Read more in our guide to HCL Domino licensing.