Adobe Acrobat is a family of application software and web services developed by Adobe Inc. to view, create, manipulate, print, and manage files in Portable Document Format (PDF). The software has become an essential tool for individuals and businesses alike, offering a wide range of features that enhance productivity and document management. However, with the continuous evolution of technology and the release of new versions, it’s crucial to understand which versions of Adobe Acrobat are currently supported. In this article, we will delve into the world of Adobe Acrobat, exploring its history, the different versions available, and most importantly, the versions that are supported by Adobe.
Introduction to Adobe Acrobat
Adobe Acrobat was first released in 1993, and since then, it has undergone numerous transformations, with each new version introducing innovative features and improvements. The software is available in two main versions: Adobe Acrobat Reader and Adobe Acrobat. Adobe Acrobat Reader is a free version that allows users to view, sign, and annotate PDFs, while Adobe Acrobat offers more advanced features, including the ability to create, edit, and convert PDFs. Understanding the differences between these versions is vital for selecting the right tool for your needs.
Evolution of Adobe Acrobat
Over the years, Adobe Acrobat has evolved significantly, with new versions being released regularly. Each version has brought new features, enhancements, and improvements, making the software more powerful and user-friendly. Some of the notable versions include Adobe Acrobat 3D, which introduced the ability to create and edit 3D PDFs, and Adobe Acrobat X, which brought a new interface and improved performance. The latest versions, such as Adobe Acrobat DC and Adobe Acrobat 2020, offer even more advanced features, including cloud-based services and enhanced security.
Key Features of Adobe Acrobat
Adobe Acrobat offers a wide range of features that make it an indispensable tool for document management. Some of the key features include:
The ability to create and edit PDFs from various file formats
Advanced security features, such as encryption and password protection
Tools for annotating and commenting on PDFs
The ability to convert PDFs to other file formats, such as Microsoft Word and Excel
Integration with other Adobe applications, such as Adobe Creative Cloud
Supported Versions of Adobe Acrobat
Adobe regularly reviews and updates its support policy for Adobe Acrobat, ensuring that users have access to the latest security patches, bug fixes, and feature enhancements. However, not all versions of Adobe Acrobat are supported. Adobe typically supports the current version and the previous two versions of Adobe Acrobat. This means that if you are using an older version, you may not receive the latest updates or support from Adobe.
Currently Supported Versions
As of the latest update, the currently supported versions of Adobe Acrobat are:
Adobe Acrobat DC (version 20.x and later)
Adobe Acrobat 2020 (version 20.x and later)
Adobe Acrobat 2017 (version 17.x and later)
End-of-Life Policy
Adobe has an end-of-life policy for its software products, including Adobe Acrobat. When a product reaches its end-of-life, Adobe no longer provides support, security updates, or bug fixes. This means that users who are still using older versions of Adobe Acrobat may be exposed to security risks and may not be able to take advantage of the latest features and enhancements. It’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest versions of Adobe Acrobat to ensure you have access to the latest security patches and feature enhancements.
Upgrading to a Supported Version
If you are using an older version of Adobe Acrobat that is no longer supported, it’s recommended that you upgrade to a supported version. Upgrading to a supported version ensures that you have access to the latest security patches, bug fixes, and feature enhancements. Additionally, upgrading to a supported version can help you avoid potential security risks and ensure that you can continue to work efficiently and effectively.
Benefits of Upgrading
Upgrading to a supported version of Adobe Acrobat offers several benefits, including:
Access to the latest security patches and bug fixes
New features and enhancements that can improve productivity and efficiency
Improved performance and stability
Better integration with other Adobe applications and services
How to Upgrade
Upgrading to a supported version of Adobe Acrobat is relatively straightforward. You can purchase a subscription to Adobe Acrobat DC or Adobe Acrobat 2020, which includes access to the latest versions and updates. Alternatively, you can purchase a perpetual license for Adobe Acrobat 2020, which includes a one-time payment and access to updates for a limited period.
| Version | Support Status | Upgrade Options |
|---|---|---|
| Adobe Acrobat DC | Supported | Subscription or perpetual license |
| Adobe Acrobat 2020 | Supported | Perpetual license or subscription |
| Adobe Acrobat 2017 | Supported (limited) | Upgrade to Adobe Acrobat 2020 or Adobe Acrobat DC |
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding which versions of Adobe Acrobat are supported is crucial for ensuring that you have access to the latest security patches, bug fixes, and feature enhancements. Adobe regularly reviews and updates its support policy, and it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest versions to avoid potential security risks and take advantage of the latest features and enhancements. By upgrading to a supported version of Adobe Acrobat, you can improve your productivity and efficiency, ensure better integration with other Adobe applications and services, and stay secure. Remember, staying up-to-date with the latest versions of Adobe Acrobat is essential for getting the most out of your software investment.
What are the different versions of Adobe Acrobat, and how do they differ from one another?
Adobe Acrobat is a family of application software and web services developed by Adobe Inc. to view, create, manipulate, print, and manage files in Portable Document Format (PDF). The different versions of Adobe Acrobat include Acrobat Reader, Acrobat Standard, Acrobat Pro, and Acrobat Pro Extended. Each version offers distinct features, with Acrobat Reader being the most basic, allowing users to view and print PDF files, while the more advanced versions provide features such as editing, converting, and creating PDF files.
The main difference between the versions lies in their functionality and the level of user interaction with PDF files. For instance, Acrobat Standard and Pro offer more advanced features like creating and editing PDF files, converting Microsoft Office files to PDF, and adding security to PDF files. On the other hand, Acrobat Pro Extended provides additional features such as creating and editing 3D PDF files, converting video and audio files to PDF, and creating PDF portfolios. Understanding the differences between these versions is essential to choose the right one that suits your needs and ensures you have the necessary tools to work efficiently with PDF files.
How often does Adobe release new versions of Acrobat, and what are the key factors that determine the release cycle?
Adobe typically releases new versions of Acrobat every 12-18 months, although this timeframe may vary depending on various factors such as market demand, technological advancements, and user feedback. The release cycle is often influenced by the need to incorporate new features, improve performance, and enhance security. Additionally, Adobe may release updates and patches to address bugs, fix vulnerabilities, and ensure compatibility with the latest operating systems and software applications.
The key factors that determine the release cycle of new Acrobat versions include customer feedback, market trends, and the availability of new technologies. Adobe also considers the need to maintain compatibility with other Adobe products and services, such as Creative Cloud and Document Cloud. Furthermore, the company must ensure that new versions of Acrobat comply with evolving industry standards and regulations, such as those related to document security, accessibility, and data protection. By understanding the factors that influence the release cycle, users can better plan for upgrades and migrations to new versions of Acrobat.
What is the support lifecycle for Adobe Acrobat, and how long does Adobe provide support for each version?
The support lifecycle for Adobe Acrobat typically lasts for 5-7 years, during which Adobe provides technical support, security updates, and bug fixes for the software. The support lifecycle is divided into two phases: the “mainstream support” phase, which lasts for 5 years, and the “extended support” phase, which lasts for an additional 2 years. During the mainstream support phase, Adobe provides full technical support, including security updates, bug fixes, and new feature releases. In the extended support phase, Adobe continues to provide security updates and technical support, but no new features are added.
After the support lifecycle ends, Adobe no longer provides technical support, security updates, or bug fixes for the software. This means that users who continue to use unsupported versions of Acrobat may be exposed to security risks and may not be able to access the latest features and functionality. To ensure continued support and access to the latest features, users are encouraged to upgrade to the latest version of Acrobat or subscribe to the Adobe Acrobat subscription service, which provides ongoing access to the latest software releases and technical support.
How do I determine which version of Adobe Acrobat is compatible with my operating system and hardware?
To determine which version of Adobe Acrobat is compatible with your operating system and hardware, you can check the system requirements for each version of Acrobat on the Adobe website. The system requirements typically include the minimum operating system version, processor speed, memory, and disk space required to run the software. You can also check the Adobe website for a list of supported operating systems and hardware configurations for each version of Acrobat.
Additionally, you can use the Adobe Acrobat compatibility tool to check which version of Acrobat is compatible with your system. This tool allows you to enter your operating system and hardware details and provides a list of compatible Acrobat versions. It is essential to ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for the version of Acrobat you want to install to avoid compatibility issues and ensure smooth performance. By checking the system requirements and using the compatibility tool, you can choose the right version of Acrobat for your needs and ensure a seamless user experience.
Can I upgrade from an older version of Adobe Acrobat to a newer version, and what are the upgrade options available?
Yes, you can upgrade from an older version of Adobe Acrobat to a newer version. Adobe offers various upgrade options, including in-place upgrades, which allow you to upgrade from an older version to a newer version without uninstalling the previous version. You can also purchase an upgrade license, which provides a discounted price for users who already own a previous version of Acrobat. Additionally, Adobe offers a subscription service, which provides ongoing access to the latest version of Acrobat, as well as access to other Adobe creative apps and services.
The upgrade options available depend on the version of Acrobat you currently own and the version you want to upgrade to. For example, if you own Acrobat Standard, you can upgrade to Acrobat Pro, which provides additional features and functionality. You can also upgrade from an older version of Acrobat to the latest version, which provides the latest features, security updates, and performance enhancements. To upgrade, you can purchase an upgrade license from the Adobe website or through an authorized reseller, or you can subscribe to the Adobe Acrobat subscription service, which provides ongoing access to the latest software releases and technical support.
What are the benefits of subscribing to the Adobe Acrobat subscription service, and how does it differ from purchasing a perpetual license?
The Adobe Acrobat subscription service provides ongoing access to the latest version of Acrobat, as well as access to other Adobe creative apps and services. The benefits of subscribing to the service include always having access to the latest features and functionality, as well as access to technical support and security updates. Additionally, the subscription service provides a cost-effective way to use Acrobat, as you only pay for the software on a monthly or annual basis, rather than purchasing a perpetual license.
The main difference between subscribing to the Adobe Acrobat subscription service and purchasing a perpetual license is that with a subscription, you do not own the software outright. Instead, you pay for access to the software on an ongoing basis, and you can cancel your subscription at any time. With a perpetual license, you purchase the software outright and own it forever, but you may not have access to the latest features and functionality unless you purchase an upgrade. The subscription service is ideal for users who want to always have access to the latest version of Acrobat and other Adobe creative apps, while a perpetual license may be suitable for users who only need to use the software occasionally or for a specific project.
How do I ensure that my Adobe Acrobat software is up-to-date, and what are the best practices for maintaining the security and integrity of my PDF files?
To ensure that your Adobe Acrobat software is up-to-date, you can enable automatic updates, which allow Adobe to install updates and patches automatically. You can also check for updates manually by visiting the Adobe website or by using the Adobe Update Service. Additionally, you can subscribe to the Adobe Acrobat subscription service, which provides ongoing access to the latest software releases and technical support.
To maintain the security and integrity of your PDF files, you should always use the latest version of Acrobat, as it provides the latest security updates and features. You should also use strong passwords and encryption to protect your PDF files, and avoid opening PDF files from unknown sources. Additionally, you can use Acrobat’s built-in security features, such as digital signatures and certificates, to authenticate and verify the integrity of your PDF files. By following these best practices, you can ensure the security and integrity of your PDF files and protect them from unauthorized access or tampering.