License Origin & Legality

In Brief

Keywi24 sells digital software products (e.g. license/product keys) and provides you with the required information digitally after purchase.

Legal Framework (EU/EEA)

The trade in "used" software is generally permitted within the EU/EEA, provided certain conditions are met.

The legal basis is in particular the Computer Programs Directive 2009/24/EC (Art. 4(2) and Art. 5(1)).

The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) clarified in its UsedSoft/Oracle ruling (C-128/11, 03.07.2012) that the distribution right in a copy of a program may be exhausted under certain conditions — even if the software was originally provided via download.

Simplified Conditions (Practical Overview)

Resale is typically only permissible under the exhaustion principle if, among other things:

  • the copy of the program was first put on the market with the consent of the rights holder,
  • the original license was granted for an unlimited period (not a rental/subscription model),
  • the original user has ceased their own use and no longer utilizes any existing copies,
  • in the case of multi-user/volume licenses, no impermissible splitting has occurred.

Legal Framework (Switzerland)

Swiss copyright law also recognizes the exhaustion principle. For computer programs, Art. 12(2) of the Swiss Copyright Act (CopA, SR 231.1) stipulates that a computer program that has been sold (or sold with the consent of the rights holder) may be used or resold.

What You Receive From Us

  • Invoice / proof of purchase
  • Product key or activation/license data (depending on the product)
  • Installation and activation instructions
  • Customer support for activation questions (Mon-Fri 08:00-18:00 CET)

Activation vs. Right of Use (Important Notice)

A product key serves the purpose of technical activation. The legal right of use is derived from the respective license terms of the manufacturer as well as the applicable statutory provisions (including the exhaustion principle).

We describe products transparently (edition, region/platform, activation type). If you have any questions, we are happy to advise you before purchase.

Our Sourcing & Quality Assurance

We source products through established European distribution and reseller channels. We maintain purchase documentation and verify all products offered to the best of our knowledge and belief before sale.

Should a technical issue arise in individual cases (e.g. activation not possible), we will assist promptly (resolution/replacement within the scope of statutory warranty and our terms and conditions).

Independent Reseller / Trademark Notice

Microsoft, Windows, Office, Visio and Project are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Keywi24 is an independent reseller and is not affiliated with Microsoft Corporation.

No Legal Advice

This information is provided for general guidance purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.