Older Perpetual License and Upcoming Activation FQDN Change

[zebis]

Hello,

I have a question regarding the upcoming activation server FQDN change and v15.5 perpetual licenses.

We support a couple of sites that purchased 4sc 15.5 perpetual pro series licenses for only on-prem communication (no external incoming / outgoing calls), no app connectivity etc. That may seem unusual, but it's for a specific use. These sites did not need 3CX annual maintenance because these installations only perform a handful of specific static tasks. When the activation server is no longer reachable, will these perpetual licenses continue to function as is? Will pro features such as reports still function, etc.?

If no, do these clients need to purchase something additional to continue using their 3CX systems even though they purchased a perpetual license?

Thank you!

 

[SweetAction]

Not an official answer by any means, just what my experience has shown

When 3CX software can no longer confirm it's activated, it downgrades to the free edition (v15's free edition in this case)

Activation confirmation happens when <secret list> but usually only when something changes in the environment. New hardware, etc. In practice I've seen machines that can no longer activate fresh hold their existing activation for years.

3cx will encourage you to upgrade, offering trade ins, first year free, etc in this case.

I understand it's likely not what you thought perpetual meant - while you have a perpetual license 3CX doesn't need to maintain their side and will not support EOL software.

 

[NickD_3CX]

What @SweetAction said, while we will never disclose exactly what triggers an activation check, if the server does not undergo any changes whatsoever, software or hardware it should be OK.

Having said that though, this was never something we advertised as a feature, so I think you should consider having a chat with your 3CX Sales Rep and maybe see to getting them up to V18. I say this because especially if the servers are physical machines, hardware failures can happen and there will be no way to restore functionality if something like that happens.

Btw, chances are that if you are not on the latest V15.5 service pack, those systems even now cannot speak with the activation server.

 

[zebis]

Thank you both for the information. Much appreciated! Have a great day.