Requires Support for Downloads #

This is one of the most important settings for your business model.

The Setting #

Checkbox: Requires Support for Downloads

When CHECKED (Recommended) #

• Customer MUST have active support contract to download files
• When support expires, downloads are disabled even if license is still valid
• Forces support renewal for continued access to updates
• License activation still works (software keeps running on already-activated sites)

When UNCHECKED #

• Downloads available as long as license is valid
• Support contract only affects support tickets, not file access
• Customer can download updates even with expired support

Why Most Vendors Check This #

• Ensures ongoing support renewals for access to updates
• Provides recurring revenue stream
• Customers motivated to keep support active
• Industry standard for WordPress plugins and SaaS

When to Uncheck #

• Open-source or free products
• When you want to separate support services completely from downloads
• Educational products where updates should always be accessible

Important Distinction #

This setting controls ACCESS to downloads, not license validity. Even with expired support:

• The software continues to work on already-activated sites
• Customer just can’t download new versions
• License remains valid (not expired)

Example Scenario #

Customer buys lifetime license + 1 year support:

• Year 1: Can download updates, open tickets, use software
• Year 2 (support expired): Can still USE software, but cannot download updates or open tickets
• Customer renews support: Downloads and tickets enabled again

Related Topics #

• [Support Contract Settings](#)
• [Support Access Permissions](#)
• [Common Product Configurations](#)