Is it really free or not?

[Fede]

Sorry to ask,

I've been thru Google, all that that pop ups to this question is "well... yes, kinda" i got here thru the networkchuck youtube channel (

). it's a 3CX sponsored video promoting the free version of 3CX. Fine, got myself a Raspberry Pi and just installed, now I see my license, says "free" but comes with an expiration date:


I understand companies need to get ROI, I get it. But where is the need to make it so confusing? i want to use this at my home, but I don't want to have to tear it down if next January, my "Free" license turns into a pumpkin. I'm more than willing to learn about the product, configure etc, it might even develop into a nice side gig, setting the odd SMB up on it and even help sell some 3CX licenses, what I cannot do is have to pay $$$ to keep the license at home alive in 12 months time.

So I would deeply appreciate a straightforward answer. is it really free? or is it just a 12-month trial? Is it really free or are there hidden fees? A.K.A. update subscription, "maintenance" etc?

I just want to know, so i can keep on this path, or pivot.

Thank you.

 

[VasilisV_3CX]

Hi @Fede,

Thanks for asking, I know many people have had the same question in the past, so let's cover it for others who may be asking the same thing.

1. Is it free or not (trial license keys)? From 3CX's side, yes absolutely! We currently offer a 8SC STD edition trial license key for one year.
What happens after the year ends? If you haven't upgraded within the year, the license is converted to a FREE 8SC STD edition license key automatically.

2. Side gig? Totally doable too! If you've got regular clients who you'd like to set 3CX up for, you can apply to join our Partnership Program, all of the benefits listed in the link.

Hope this helps!

 

[cobaltit]

Pricelist - 3CX


It's free with an expiration because like anything else, it's free until it's not free. So right now it will be free until next year. If things stay as they are , then it will be free for another year. And so on and so forth. But if they change course, then whatever remainder you have on your license that time will be free. But I imagine if you are saving money by using this at home (presumably, or else why bother) and or are installing it for others for a fee, then it shouldn't be that hard to come up with $250 for the year. But if that looks to be a challenge, then there's always Google voice or FreePBX or something else.