Russian software development companies have begun offering their products under “universal licenses” for Windows and Linux. This format is designed to facilitate the migration of enterprises within the framework of legal requirements for changing software.

As the publication notes, the practice of a single licence for different operating systems has long existed in the world, mainly for products sold by subscription. For some software, this format is also used for one-time purchases. Thus, since 2016, the Microsoft Office package for Windows and macOS has been distributed under a universal license, and since 2021, SoftMaker Office for Windows, macOS and Linux. Some programs are available under a universal license and for a specific OS.

In Russia, such licenses may become relevant under a decree prohibiting the use of foreign software in critical information infrastructure facilities (in banks, telecom operators, fuel and energy complexes, etc., which must switch completely to Russian software by January 1, 2025).