To distribute and sell applications to customers, ISVs must use which type of package?

ISVs, or Independent Software Vendors, need to use managed packages to distribute and sell their applications to customers effectively. Managed packages provide several advantages that are essential for application distribution, including version control, security, and the ability to manage updates and licenses.

When an ISV creates a managed package, they can restrict access to the underlying source code, ensuring that their intellectual property is protected. This is a key consideration for ISVs looking to monetize their applications. Moreover, managed packages allow for seamless upgrades and maintenance of the application for the end-user, ensuring that users always have access to the latest features and fixes without needing to manually install updates.

In contrast, unmanaged packages do not offer the same level of control or protection, as the source code is accessible to customers once the package is installed. This can lead to versioning issues and security concerns, making unmanaged packages unsuitable for commercial distribution.

Thus, managed packages are the standard for ISVs to distribute their applications in a way that protects their work while providing ongoing support to their customers.