Is System Mechanic a one-time purchase or an annual subscription?

All editions of System Mechanic are sold as annual subscriptions.
This means your license is valid for one year from the date of activation and includes continuous updates, improvements, and technical support for the entire subscription period.

Why System Mechanic uses an annual subscription

System Mechanic is more than just a one-time optimization tool—it’s an actively updated performance and security platform. Modern Windows systems evolve constantly through Microsoft updates, driver changes, and security patches. The subscription model ensures you always have:

• Automatic updates to keep compatibility with the latest versions of Windows.
• Continuous feature improvements and new tools as they’re released.
• Ongoing malware definitions and performance tune-up intelligence (for Pro and Ultimate Defense editions).
• Access to technical support and activation management.

With a one-time purchase model, you’d risk running outdated software that no longer performs effectively or securely. The subscription model avoids that problem by ensuring your software stays current and fully supported.

What happens when your subscription expires

• You don’t lose your data or settings, but the optimization and security features will stop updating or running until the subscription is renewed.
• Renewing your license immediately restores full functionality—no need to reinstall the program.
• You can renew through your iolo Account or directly within the software when prompted. Additionally, you can buy a new license and enter it into the existing installation.

Can I still use System Mechanic after my year is up?

Yes, but with limited functionality. Some non-real-time optimization tools may continue to work, but most automated cleanup, performance scanning, and security updates require an active subscription.
To maintain peak performance and protection, it’s recommended to renew your license before it expires.

Multi-PC licensing

System Mechanic includes a Whole Home License that allows installation on up to 10 PCs within a single household—so you don’t need to purchase separate licenses for each computer. This makes it easy and cost-effective to keep every PC in your home optimized and protected under one subscription.

💡 Tip: For the best pricing and bundle offers, visit our System Mechanic Deals page to see the latest discounts and upgrade options, including savings on higher editions like System Mechanic Pro and System Mechanic Ultimate Defense.

Summary

System Mechanic is not a one-time purchase.
It’s an annual subscription that keeps your PC optimization and protection tools current year-round, ensuring continuous performance improvements, up-to-date compatibility, and full access to all features.