JAM Software, the company behind disk space analyzer TreeSize, has implemented changes to its support policies that have prompted criticism from perpetual license holders. Beginning in 2025, the company transitioned most TreeSize editions to subscription-based models, reserving perpetual licenses primarily for personal use with 12 months of included updates and support.
Under the new arrangement, once the initial support period expires, customers seeking continued updates and technical assistance must subscribe to the software despite having purchased perpetual licenses. The company confirmed it maintains no plans to discontinue selling perpetual licenses for TreeSize Personal but emphasized that extended support now generally requires subscription enrollment. A particularly contentious aspect of the policy involves JAM Software’s refusal to provide backup installation files or license keys to users whose support periods have lapsed, citing concerns about outdated software containing security vulnerabilities and the technical burden of maintaining older versions indefinitely.
Customers have expressed frustration on social media platforms, with some characterizing the approach as extracting additional payments from those who already purchased the software. JAM Software’s leadership acknowledged the policy has been frustrating for some users but defended the decision as necessary given current economic conditions. The company stated that perpetual license purchasers do retain the right to use their software indefinitely, making refunds unnecessary in their view. Proactive email notifications are sent to customers before their support periods expire, encouraging them to backup installation files independently.
The broader context reflects industry trends toward subscription revenue models. JAM Software justified the shift by emphasizing the need for predictable revenue streams to maintain reliable product development and support standards. The company noted that the challenging economic environment and obligations to business customers necessitated greater predictability than one-time purchase models provide. Meanwhile, free alternatives like WinDirStat exist for users seeking disk space analysis tools, though TreeSize’s paid versions offer additional features unavailable in the free edition.
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