If you are a regular user of PDFs, whether for editing, creating, signing, or converting, Adobe Acrobat 2020 is likely to be one of the most beneficial options you will ever choose. It is a robust, professional-grade tool that allows you to get all your document business done without having to be constantly online. In this Adobe Acrobat 2020 installation guide for the lifetime, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: from what the software offers, to how to install it, and why the “lifetime” version can actually save you time, money, and a lot of technical headaches.
Why Choose Adobe Acrobat 2020?
Unlike Adobe’s subscription-based Acrobat DC, Adobe Acrobat 2020 is a one-time purchase—meaning you pay once and get to use it for life (well, for the life of your device or OS compatibility). For individuals who prefer not to incur monthly charges, this lifetime version is ideal. That’s why a lot of people still love using Acrobat 2020, even with newer versions out there:
Edit and create PDFs like a pro – Need to fix a typo, add images, or build a PDF from scratch? Acrobat 2020 lets you do all of that without needing extra tools.
Keep your documents safe – You can lock your files with passwords, restrict editing, or control who sees what—perfect for keeping things private or professional.
Scan and edit printed pages – Got a photo or scan of a document? Acrobat’s built-in OCR tool turns it into real, editable text. Super useful for working with old paper files.
Works well on both Windows and Mac – No need to worry about switching between systems—Acrobat 2020 runs smoothly on both platforms.
One-time payment, no monthly costs – Pay once, and it’s yours. No subscriptions, no surprise charges. Just install and use it whenever you need.
Before You Begin: What You’ll Need
Before jumping into the install process, here’s what you’ll need handy:
- A valid Adobe Acrobat 2020 license key (comes with purchase)
- A compatible device (Windows 10 or macOS Mojave and newer)
- An active internet connection for activation (initially)
- Enough storage space (around 2.5GB free space)
If you haven’t purchased it yet, make sure to get it from a trusted source or directly from Adobe. There are lots of shady “cracked” versions online—avoid them at all costs.
Adobe Acrobat 2020 Installation Guide for the Lifetime
Let’s get into the step-by-step installation. We’ll break it down for both Windows and Mac users.
For Windows:
Download the Installer
Visit the official Adobe website or use the installation CD (if you have one). You’ll need your Adobe ID to log in.
Run the Setup File
Double-click the .exe file to begin the installation process.
Enter License Key
You’ll be prompted to enter your 24-digit license key. Enter it exactly as provided.
Choose Installation Location
Default is usually fine, but you can choose another folder if needed.
Complete Installation
Click Install and let it finish. Once done, you can launch the software.
Activate Your Copy
Log in with your Adobe ID to activate the license. You’re now good to go—no monthly subscription required.
For Mac:
Download the Mac Version
Head to the Adobe downloads page and grab the macOS-compatible installer.
Mount the DMG File
Open the .dmg and run the installer.
Follow Prompts
Enter your license key, agree to the terms, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Drag to Applications
Just like any other Mac app, drag it into your Applications folder to complete the installation.
Activate
Use your Adobe ID to activate. Done.
Other Adobe Tools You Might Want to Consider
If you are working on the design or any other assignments, then you are likely to need other tools, such as Adobe Premiere Pro on the Mac or Adobe Illustrator.
The Adobe Premiere Pro Mac is the video editing industry standard. It is ideal in the hands of content creators, YouTubers, and filmmakers who use Apple devices. The Mac edition is highly performance-optimized using M1/M2 chipsets, and it has ultra-smooth editing.
In case you like graphic design or digital illustration, you may wish to purchase the Adobe Illustrator software. The best vector-based design tool on the market, no matter what you are producing, logos, typography, or infographics, is still Illustrator.
These are tools that can be coupled with Acrobat as well. As an example, you can render a high-resolution poster created in Illustrator as a PDF and refine it in Acrobat, or make interactive PDFs with video content created with Premiere Pro.
Final Tips for Lifetime Users
- Keep a backup of your installer and license key. If you ever switch devices, you’ll need them again.
- Avoid updates beyond Acrobat 2020. Since you’re on a lifetime version, you won’t get future upgrades unless you pay again.
- Keep your OS compatible. If Adobe stops supporting your OS, Acrobat might stop working with updates.
In Conclusion: Adobe Acrobat 2020 Installation Guide
That was it – the lifetime installation guide to Adobe Acrobat 2020. You can install this necessary software in a couple of steps and use it for a long period without having to spend a penny every month.
And when you do that, be sure to read about Adobe Premiere Pro software, the Mac version that will enable you to edit videos, or see about purchasing Adobe Illustrator software, which will provide you with accurate vector design tools as long as you are doing creative work. Adobe is designed to make you more creative, and lifetime licenses allow you to choose the time and manner of upgrade. Get Adobe Acrobat 2020 today and simplify your PDF work for life!