Network monitoring tool provider Paessler has recently introduced a new subscription pricing model for its product PRTG, following in the footsteps of VMware‘s move to subscription-based licensing. The company has been offering network monitoring tools to enterprises since 1997, with PRTG designed to monitor the entire network infrastructure using sensors for various devices and applications.
Reports indicate that the new subscription pricing for PRTG represents a significant increase compared to the previous maintenance extensions, causing concern among users. Customers are advised to review their existing contracts to understand the impact of these changes on their businesses. Paessler has confirmed the transition to a subscription-based model, stating that it will allow for continuous product improvements and enhanced customer support.
The company’s pricing page shows that PRTG licenses are now offered on a three-year subscription basis, with prices varying based on the number of sensors needed and the size of the business. While the freeware version with limited sensors will still be available, some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the move to a subscription model and are considering alternative solutions.
This shift in licensing strategy by Paessler mirrors the trend seen in the industry, where more vendors are moving towards subscription-based models after Broadcom’s acquisition of VMware led to a similar change. The impact of these changes on customers varies, with some experiencing significant cost increases while others benefit from lower expenses due to the new pricing structure.
Despite concerns raised by users and the loss of some customers like Computershare, VMware‘s parent company Broadcom expects revenue growth through 2024 as a result of the licensing changes. As other software vendors observe these developments, the industry may see a shift towards subscription-based licensing models in the future.
Article Source
https://www.theregister.com/AMP/2024/07/05/paessler_brings_in_subscription_licensing/
