Adobe has framework agreements with German higher education institutions, represented by the LRZ, called Enterprise Term License Agreements (ETLA). These agreements set preferential prices for Adobe products. The old ETLA was running from 23 November 2022 to 22 November 2025. The new ETLA covers the period from 26 November 2025 to 25 September 2029. Any license from the old ETLA included a grace period covering 23 to 25 November 2025.

Procedure for the transition from ETLA_old to ETLA_new:

• The licenses of all current license holders (ETLA_old) were revoked on 25.11.2025 at 18:00.

• The licenses ordered by all license holders of ETLA_new will be stored and activated in the Adobe portal on 26.11.2025.

• In general, it is not necessary to reinstall the Adobe software. If necessary, it may be helpful to close and restart the Adobe software to trigger the validation of a valid license.

The ordering process will no longer take place via the KIT Software Shop but via a separate SCC web form. Any costs for the ordered licenses will be billed internally within KIT.

This procedure ensures correct accounting of all costs.

Available Packages from 26.11.2025:

Creative Cloud All Apps (Named User)

Tied to one user, can be authorized on two devices (not simultaneous). Includes full Creative Cloud apps (Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere, etc.).

Creative Cloud All Apps (Shared Device License, SDL)

Tied to a workstation, used sequentially by multiple users. For pool or part-time workstations.

Acrobat Pro (Named User)

Tied to one user, can be authorized on two devices.

Participation in Creative Cloud All Apps SDL

Grants permission to use a Shared Device License at KIT. No software included.

Important note after ordering the license:

• If you placed an order for a Named User license using the current order form, please log in using your abbreviated KIT email address (e.g., ab1234 ∂does-not-exist.kit edu).

• If you placed an order for a Shared Device license, please share the IP address of the device to the email in the order form, as this type of license is tied to the device’s IP address.

• You can access the Adobe login page here: Adobe Website Login

Purchase & Account:

• Must use KIT email and agree to data transfer to Adobe.

• After purchase, installers are available in the Softwareshop.

• Wait up to 24h for Enterprise account creation. Always log in with this account.

• If you have a private Adobe account, uninstall software and reinstall after logging in with Enterprise account.

Installation Notes:

• Uninstall any previous Adobe software first.

• Use the Creative Cloud Cleaner Tool if needed: Cleaner Tool

• For SDL, deactivate old licenses using the Adobe Licensing Toolkit.

Usage Rights:

• SDL: One license per workstation.

• Named User: Activate on up to two computers, but not simultaneously.

• Software may only be installed on KIT-owned or leased computers.

Support Links:

• Installation & troubleshooting: Adobe Help
• Adobe account deletion: Delete Account

Alternative products can be found in the following list.

1.      What is the Adobe Enterprise Term License Agreement (ETLA)?

The Adobe Enterprise Term License Agreement (ETLA) is a framework agreement between Adobe and German higher education institutions, represented by the LRZ. Through this agreement, the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) can provide selected Adobe products to eligible users at preferential institutional pricing for a defined contract period. The current ETLA is valid from 26 November 2025 to 25 September 2029.

2.     What packages are covered under ETLA?

Under the current ETLA, the following Adobe products are available:

• Creative Cloud All Apps (Named User)

Licensed to a specific user and can be activated on up to two devices (not simultaneously).

• Creative Cloud All Apps (Shared Device License, SDL)

Licensed to a specific workstation and used sequentially by multiple users, typically for pool or shared computers.

• Acrobat Pro (Named User)

Licensed to a specific user and can be activated on up to two devices.

3.     How can I order Adobe products?

Adobe products covered by ETLA can be ordered using the current SCC Adobe order form. The ordering process is no longer handled via the KIT Software Shop and is managed separately to ensure correct internal cost accounting.

4.     What if the product I need is not available under ETLA?

If a required Adobe product is not included in the ETLA portfolio, it may be possible to order it via the KIT Software Shop using the Adobe Value Incentive Plan (VIP), subject to availability and approval.

5.     What is the difference between a Named User license and a Shared Device License (SDL)?

• Named User License

Assigned to one individual user and can be activated on up to two devices, but not used simultaneously.

• Shared Device License (SDL)

Assigned to a single workstation and intended for use by multiple users one after another. This license type is typically used for pool or teaching computers.

6.     Can I change the cost center during the order?

Currently, only the standard cost center stored in the system for each person can be used during ordering. Allowing alternative cost centers would require an additional verification step to confirm validity and authorization, which is still under evaluation. At present, if another cost center should cover the costs, this must be handled through internal rebooking after purchase.

7.     How can I access the Adobe products after ordering?

You can access your Adobe products by logging in to the Adobe website using your abbreviated KIT email address (for example, ab1234 ∂does-not-exist.kit edu).After successful login, your ordered products should be available in your Adobe account.

8.     How can I download Adobe products?

• Named User License

You have direct access to download and install the products from the Adobe website.

• Shared Device License (SDL)

You will be given access to the Adobe Admin Console. You will be assigned deployment administrator rights, which allow you to download the installation packages for your device and install the products. Please contact the KIT Adobe administrators if you have questions or did not receive deployment administrator rights.

9.     For SDL licenses, can I change my laptop or workstation?

Yes, this is possible.

10.   Can I transfer my license to another user if I leave the institute?

Yes, transferring a license to another eligible user is possible. This should be coordinated through the responsible administrative or SCC contact to ensure correct reassignment.

11.   Are there any alternatives to Adobe products?

Yes. Information about alternative software solutions is available on KIT websites that list recommended alternatives for individual Adobe applications.

12.   What services does SCC provide regarding Adobe?

The SCC provides only the following services related to Adobe products:

• Procurement support
• License and contract management
• Interface to Adobe manufacturer support

SCC acts as the central coordination point for Adobe licensing at KIT.