Adobe Transition – Frequently Asked Questions

We have summarized the most important questions about the changeover for you.

Why wasn't the previous campus license simply extended for everyone?

This decision had to be made for cost reasons.

Can I continue to use Adobe programs?

Yes, but the costs will no longer be covered centrally and must be borne by the respective users/institutions themselves.

To learn more
Order licenses: https://www.en-zdv.uni-mainz.de/adobe-licensing/

How can I obtain Adobe programs in the future?

Please contact softwarelizenzen@zdv.uni-mainz.de. The ZDV purchases all Adobe products in bundles. This ensures connection to the single sign-on and enables volume discounts. Independent procurement is not permitted.

To learn more
Order licenses: https://www.en-zdv.uni-mainz.de/adobe-licensing/
Single Sign On: https://www.en-zdv.uni-mainz.de/2023/02/01/single-sign-on-log-in-once-and-access-all-applications/

Do I have to uninstall Adobe products?

For computers that are managed by ZDV

We will centrally uninstall all programs from computers that are managed by ZDV. You do not need to take any action yourself.

For computers that are not managed by ZDV

On computers that are not centrally managed by ZDV, we recommend uninstalling Adobe products to free up storage space and avoid complications.

Exception: If you purchase a new Adobe license, you can continue to use the previous installation for this purpose. After purchasing the license, you will need to log in to the Adobe software again with your JGU account to authenticate the license.

Can the suggested alternative programs run parallel to Adobe?

Yes, the alternatives can be installed at the same time. However, Adobe programs that were purchased centrally will only work until the license expires on 22 November 2025.

How do I install the alternative programs?

We have compiled an overview of the alternative programs for you. Detailed installation instructions can be found on the overview page:https://www.en-zdv.uni-mainz.de/adobe-alternatives/

How do I handle the files I have created with Adobe programs?

Detailed instructions how to best handle your existing files can be found here:
https://www.en-zdv.uni-mainz.de/adobe-to-affinity/

What about mobile and tablet use?

What alternatives are there if I only want to view/print PDFs but not edit them?

Unlike in the past, you no longer need a special program for this. Nowadays, any internet browser can display and print PDF files. If you want to use a program for this, you can alternatively use the Foxit PDF Reader program from the ZDV apps.

To learn more
https://www.en-zdv.uni-mainz.de/software/#Easily_Obtain_Software_at_JGU

Is the free Adobe Reader also affected by the change?

You can continue to use it for now. However, in the medium term, we plan to no longer distribute it through the Software Center.

Can I continue to use Adobe stock photos that I have already downloaded?

Yes, under the following conditions:

• The stock photos (Pro Images) must have been downloaded and paid for before the end of the contract.
• In addition, the Pro Images must have been used, for example on websites or in printed products.
• If the Pro Images have been downloaded and paid for at the end of the contract but have not yet been used, there is a 30-day grace period to use them.
• No new Pro Images may be purchased during this grace period.
• Pro Images that have not been used by the end of the grace period are considered unlicensed and may not be used at a later date.
• All Pro Images downloaded and paid for prior to termination of the contract and used by the end of the grace period remain subject to the terms and conditions of these product-specific license terms.