Softastrd: Your gateway to authentic software

Softastrd is not just an e-commerce platform; it is your one-stop shop for genuine software licences. By purchasing from us, you get access to:

• Authenticity and legal compliance
  Every software licence on Softastrd is carefully selected from official channels and authorised resellers. We pride ourselves on adhering to the highest standards of authenticity and legal compliance. Our operations are in line with the ruling of the Court of Justice of the European Union (Case C-128/11), ensuring that all licences are legally obtained and resold.
• Wide selection
  Our catalogue includes a wide range of software licences to suit your needs, whether for business, creative projects or specialised applications. At Softastrd, we believe that software should fit you, and not the other way around.
• Competitive prices
  Affordability is key, and Softastrd offers competitive prices without compromising quality or authenticity. Our authentic software licences are available at reasonable prices, helping individuals and companies to remain compliant and within budget.
• Reliable resources
  Through collaboration with official dealers and an extensive inventory, which includes second-hand or discontinued licences, Softastrd offers diverse options. Every licence in our inventory is verified for authenticity and compliance.

For those seeking authentic software licences at affordable prices, understanding the legal context is essential. Below, we explore the landmark ruling of the Court of Justice of the European Union (Case C-128/11), which established the legality of used and second-hand software licences, allowing companies and consumers to move into the licensing market with confidence.

The Judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union (Case C-128/11)

The 2012 ruling of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) was a turning point in the debate on second-hand software licences. It clarified the legality of reselling software licences in the EU. This case involved Oracle's attempt to restrict the resale of its software licences.

Key points of the judgment:

• Exhaustion of distribution rights
  Once a software licence is sold in the European Economic Area (EEA) with the consent of the copyright holder, the seller's distribution rights are exhausted. This grants the buyer the right to resell the licence.
• Equal treatment
  Digital licences are treated in the same way as physical copies, ensuring the full legitimacy of both.
• No additional restrictions
  Sellers may not impose further restrictions on the resale of licences, such as prohibiting their transfer or charging additional fees.

Impact of subsequent judgments

Several court rulings have reinforced the CJEU's decision, confirming the legality of second-hand software licences:

• Münster Public Chamber of Commerce (01.03.2016)
  It reaffirmed the right of licence holders to resell them.
• Federal Court of Justice (17.7.2013)
  It confirmed the legality of second-hand software licences nationwide.
• BGH judgment (11.12.2014)
  It strengthened the regulatory framework for the resale of software licences.
• OLG Judgment (August 2016)
  It provided consistent legal interpretations in support of second-hand licences.

Guaranteeing authenticity and conformity

Although these rulings confirm the legality of second-hand software licences, it is crucial to ensure authenticity and compliance:

• Certified dealers
  Rely on certified resellers like Softastrd, who select licences from reliable channels.
• Verification of licences
  It implements processes to verify software use and maintain compliance.
• Communication with Suppliers
  Keep an open dialogue with software vendors to keep abreast of their licensing policies.

The CJEU ruling (Case C-128/11) and subsequent legal decisions have transformed the software licensing industry. Softastrd gives you access to authentic and affordable licences, while ensuring full legal compliance.