Do I Need Adobe?

It's not mandatory. You need Adobe Acrobat Reader DC for opening PDF documents, but it's not the only PDF reader out there. For example, web browsers have built-in PDF functionality so that you can easily open PDF files in your browser.

What does Adobe do for my computer?

Adobe Acrobat Reader DC software is the free, trusted global standard for viewing, printing, signing, sharing, and annotating PDFs. It's the only PDF viewer that can open and interact with all types of PDF content – including forms and multimedia.

Do I need both Adobe Acrobat and Adobe Reader?

Thanks!!! That is correct. If you have Acrobat you don't need REader anyhow since Reader is only for viewing PDF's and Acrobat has that covered already.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.