Here it is spelled out:Īdobe allows program members to order a current-version license but to use a prior version. So these “business” licenses have this helpful capability which allows you to order the latest release (like CS5.5 or Acrobat X) but then optionally receive and use the prior version instead (like CS5.0 or CS4, or Acrobat 9). It’s little-known, but Adobe actually sells a special type of license that can be “downgraded.” These unique products come from the Adobe Business Store (and are also known as volume licenses) – but you don’t have to be a business to get them, or even buy more than one copy, and they can be easily purchased online instantly with a credit card. So what do you do? The Solution: Order “Prior-Version Software”įortunately, there is an easy solution. So, do you turn to other random sources like eBay or Craigslist? If you’re smart, definitely not – we strongly advise against eBay et al. The problem is it’s inconvenient to search as often those stocks are thin or sold out, and no longer available. If you ask Adobe, they’ll usually tell you to check their official list of authorized resellers & retailers to see if someone still has the version you want in stock. If you want the trial version to use for 30 days, that’s easy – Adobe actually keeps most older original trials still available for download on their servers – including all of CS4 and CS5, plus earlier releases of Acrobat, Lightroom, Elements, etc… You can find those trials all linked for download here:īut how about when you want to actually buy CS4 or CS5? So if you need a prior release, what do you do? The challenge is, once a new release comes out, Adobe no longer officially sells the older version ( with one exception). And occasionally some folks say they prefer the earlier, simpler versions over newer ones with more features. Two common reasons are the higher system requirements – 64-bit for some components of CS5 like After Effects & Premiere Pro, as well as cases where the rest of a customer’s site is still running an older version and would like to add a new setup with the same compatibility. Adobe’s Creative Suite 5.5 has been out since May, and has generally been well-reviewed and even lauded as a must-have release… Nevertheless, some folks are still looking for or require older versions of the software, like CS5.0 or CS4.

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