Hi, Mac software can be used in multiple Apple computers. iOS apps can be used in multiple iOS devices. How about Windows programs? I want to install one on my desktop and one on my laptop. I don't need to use the program at the same time.
Got a tip for us?
Let us know
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
Using one program in two PCs?
- Thread starter hajime
- Start date
- Sort by reaction score
SDColorado
macrumors 601
Depends on the Program. That is true of "Mac" software as well. If by Apple native programs they can be, but not all software developed for Mac can be used on Mulitple computers. Some you have to buy multiple licences for, others you can use on multiple computers, but logging into the program on one will log you out on the other.
So you really need to have a look at the individual program and see how many activations, it will allow, etc.
So you really need to have a look at the individual program and see how many activations, it will allow, etc.
I wonder if it is possible to install programs on a NAS at home and have different machines using the same license one at a time. What is the main use of NAS actually? To share user data such as photos and videos?
iGobbleoff
macrumors 6502
Which program? Some licensing lets you use it on as many machines as you like. Some are locked to the one machine.
SDColorado
macrumors 601
I can't answer the question about the NAS as far as program installation, but I believe you would still only be able to run the program from the machine that you installed the program on the NAS from. I believe it has to do with registry entries from the originating machine or some such thing. Someone with more knowledge than myself would have to confirm or deny that 🙂
iGobbleoff
macrumors 6502
So with Matlab it looks like you can install it on four computers but only use two at a time. Just ask their licensing group and they’ll tell you
Individual
The Individual license is intended for use by a single named user.
How It Works:
Individual
The Individual license is intended for use by a single named user.
How It Works:
- The products are used by a single named user. The products can be activated on up to four different computers, provided that the products are only accessible to and used by that single named user. A named user may not use a program on more than two computers simultaneously.
Erehy Dobon
Suspended
It depends on the program. I have a bunch of games from Steam installed on multiple Windows PCs. In fact, I buy games on Steam because if there's a MacOS binary, I can install it on my Mac mini at no extra charge.
Some publishers limit the number of installations per user license, some do not. For example, Fidelity Investments does not care how many computers you load Active Trader Pro onto. You just need valid login credentials on each one.
Read the fine print, that's the only way to be sure.
This is not specific to MacOS. I can usually use iOS apps on multiple devices.
I've purchased apps on the Microsoft Store as well to install on multiple Windows PCs. Same with standalone Windows and Mac apps from the software developers.
Some publishers limit the number of installations per user license, some do not. For example, Fidelity Investments does not care how many computers you load Active Trader Pro onto. You just need valid login credentials on each one.
Read the fine print, that's the only way to be sure.
This is not specific to MacOS. I can usually use iOS apps on multiple devices.
I've purchased apps on the Microsoft Store as well to install on multiple Windows PCs. Same with standalone Windows and Mac apps from the software developers.
Last edited: