What trademark class is a software company in?

Most software companies register in classes 42 and 9. Class 42 covers technology & it services; Class 9 covers electronics & software. You only ever register the classes that match what you actually sell.

Do software companies need to register in more than one class?

Often, yes. A trademark is only protected in the classes you register, and you pay a fee for each one. Many software companies file in classes 42 and 9 together, then add others as the business grows.

How much does it cost a software company to register a trademark?

Filing direct with the UK IPO costs £205 for the first class and £60 for each additional class, so a software company covering classes 42 and 9 pays about £265. The fee isn't refunded if your mark is refused — which is why checking the name is free first matters.

Trademark classes · By business type

Which trademark classes does a software company need?

Most software companies register in class 42 (Technology & IT services) and class 9 (Electronics & software).

Software classification turns on one question: do users download it, or access it online? Downloaded apps are a good; cloud and SaaS products are a service — and many companies need both, plus the business class.

Last reviewed June 2026

Before you file in class 42, make sure the name is free. If it's already taken, your application can be refused — and the £205 IPO fee isn't refunded. Checking takes seconds and costs nothing.

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The classes software companies usually register in

Also worth considering

Depending on how far your range extends, you may also want:

Class 35 Advertising & retail Business and advertising services — if your platform also provides marketing, analytics or retail functions.

Related business types

Frequently asked questions

What trademark class is a software company in?: Most software companies register in classes 42 and 9. Class 42 covers technology & it services; Class 9 covers electronics & software. You only ever register the classes that match what you actually sell.
Do software companies need to register in more than one class?: Often, yes. A trademark is only protected in the classes you register, and you pay a fee for each one. Many software companies file in classes 42 and 9 together, then add others as the business grows.
How much does it cost a software company to register a trademark?: Filing direct with the UK IPO costs £205 for the first class and £60 for each additional class, so a software company covering classes 42 and 9 pays about £265. The fee isn't refunded if your mark is refused — which is why checking the name is free first matters. See the full cost breakdown .

Check your name before you file

A trademark only protects you in the classes you register — and only if the name's free to begin with. Search the UK and EU registers in seconds. Free, no sign-up.

Check your name free →

These are the classes software companies most commonly register, not a full legal specification — when you file, you list the exact goods or services you need. This is general information, not legal advice. See also our guide to registering a UK trademark, or browse other business types.