Trademark Class 42 for Protecting Technology, Research & Software Service Brands
If you offer services related to IT consulting, software development, technology solutions, or scientific research, your brand belongs under Trademark Class 42. This class is crucial for businesses operating in India’s rapidly evolving technology and innovation sectors.
From app development and cloud computing to IT security and software as a service (SaaS), Class 42 ensures your tech-driven brand is legally protected in a competitive digital landscape.
Let’s explore what services fall under Trademark Class 42, what is excluded, and how to protect your technology and software brand through proper trademark registration.
Understanding Trademark Classification in India
In India, trademarks are governed by the Trade Marks Act, 1999, which allows businesses to protect their brand identity, such as names, logos, or service offerings, under specific classes of goods and services.
India follows the internationally recognized Nice Classification system, which divides all goods and services into 45 trademark classes—Classes 1 to 34 for goods, and Classes 35 to 45 for services.
What Services Can You Trademark Under Class 42?
Class 42 covers a broad range of technology and scientific services aimed at research, development, and IT support. If your services involve creating, maintaining, or consulting on software, hardware, or scientific innovations, your offerings likely fall under this class.
Here’s what you can trademark under Class 42
- IT consulting and advisory services – System analysis, IT project management, and technical consulting.
- Software development – Custom software, mobile apps, SaaS platforms, and cloud-based solutions.
- Technology support and maintenance – Network management, data hosting, server maintenance, and cybersecurity.
- Research and scientific services – R&D in technology, scientific testing, and laboratory services.
- Design and development of computer hardware – Including prototypes, computer systems, and peripheral devices.
- Website design and hosting – Creating and maintaining websites and web hosting services.
- Technical project research and development – Innovations, tech testing, and engineering services.
- Software as a Service (SaaS) – Online software delivery and platform services.
- IT security services – Firewall protection, data encryption, and IT vulnerability assessments.
These services are commonly provided by IT consultancies, software companies, research labs, SaaS providers, cybersecurity firms, and tech startups.
Explore the Complete List of Services Classified Under Trademark Class 42
Class 42 covers a broad spectrum of technology, IT, software, and scientific research services essential for innovation-driven businesses.
To get the full scope, explore the detailed list published under Class 42. You can use the search function to quickly find specific services such as “software development,” “IT consulting,” or “cloud computing.”
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Looking for the right trademark class for your services? Check out our detailed article on choosing the appropriate class for trademark registration to identify the best fit for your business.
What Is Not Included in Trademark Class 42?
Although Class 42 covers a wide range of technology, IT, and scientific services, some related offerings fall under different classes based on their core function or industry.
Here’s what is not included—and where those services should be filed instead
- Business consultancy, marketing, or HR services belong to the trademark class for business support services (Class 35) as their primary focus is operational strategy, workforce management, or market growth, not technological innovation.
- Legal technology platform that provides legal counsel or representation must be registered under the trademark class for legal services (Class 45), since the offering centers on law and compliance, not IT development.
- Financial apps, robo-advisors, or platforms offering investment guidance are classified under the trademark class for financial services (Class 36), as they deal with money management, not software development alone.
- Programs like coding bootcamps, tech workshops, or certification courses are better placed under the trademark class for education and training services (Class 41), because the core purpose is learning, not tech creation.
- Platforms offering telemedicine, diagnostic AI, or digital wellness tools should be registered under thetrademark class for medical and therapeutic services (Class 44), since their function is aligned with health outcomes and patient support.
Determining the exact trademark class for your services can be tricky, especially when items overlap in function. If you’re unsure where your goods fit, use our Trademark Class Search Tool to find the right match and avoid rejection or delays.
Intellectual Properties You Should Trademark Under Class 42
In the fast-paced world of technology and innovation, protecting your intellectual property ensures your brand’s uniqueness and legal exclusivity. Whether you run a software development company, an IT consultancy, or a research lab, securing trademarks for your brand name, software products, and platform names under Class 42 strengthens your market position and prevents misuse.
- Business or Agency Name – Leading IT firms like Infosys, TCS, and Wipro have trademarked their names to protect their identity across markets.
- Software Product Names – Platforms like Zoho CRM, Freshworks, and Quick Heal represent specific software offerings under larger brands and are ideal for trademark protection.
- Platform or App Titles – Proprietary services such as Paytm Wallet, or Practo Healthcare Platform benefit from individual trademark registrations.
- Logo and Design Elements – Distinctive logos of companies like IBM, HCL, and Cisco are trademarked globally to reinforce visual identity.
- Taglines and Slogans – Phrases like “Powering Progress” (IBM), “Experience Certainty” (TCS), or “Secure Your Digital Future” (Cybersecurity firms) are trademarked slogans that communicate brand positioning and enhance recall.
Trademarks help tech-based businesses build credibility and protect identity across both offline and digital channels.
List of Popular Brands Registered Under Class 42
Many of the world’s leading technology and IT service providers have secured trademark protection under Class 42 to protect their innovations, digital solutions, and proprietary software platforms.
Here are a few well-known examples:
- Infosys – Registered under Class 42 for its software development, IT consulting, and tech innovation services.
- TCS (Tata Consultancy Services) – Trademarked various digital platforms and software tools under this class.
- Zoho Corporation – Protects its suite of SaaS products like Zoho CRM and Zoho Books under Class 42 for cloud computing and application software.
- Freshworks – Known for customer engagement software, registered its tech platforms under Class 42.
- Wipro HOLMES – AI-based cognitive computing platform protected under Class 42 for scientific and technological services.
- Tech Mahindra – Offers IT and software development services across global industries, registered under Class 42.
Why Register Your Trademark Under Class 42?
If your business is rooted in technology, offering software, SaaS products, scientific research, or digital innovation, registering under Class 42 is crucial for brand and IP protection.
Key Benefits for Tech and Software Brands
- Protect Proprietary Platforms – Secure exclusive rights over your applications, code frameworks, or product interfaces.
- Strengthen Market Position – Build defensibility for your innovation by distinguishing your product in a fast-growing tech market.
- Prevent Imitation – Stop unauthorized use of similar names, user interfaces, or toolsets across app stores and marketplaces.
- Establish Legal Ownership – Avoid disputes when scaling, licensing, or acquiring IP-heavy investments.
- Enhance Investor Confidence – Registered trademarks signal IP maturity, boosting credibility with investors, clients, and partners.
If you’ve read this far, you likely know if your service falls under Class 42. If it does, now’s the perfect time to take the next step—apply for trademark registration today with expert guidance from LegalWiz.
Still evaluating your next steps? These resources will help you make an informed decision:
- When and why you should trademark a name
- What can be registered as a trademark
- Different types of trademarks in India
- Trademark registration fees and costs in India
- Documents Required for Trademark Registration in India
10,000+ Brands Trust LegalWiz.in for Trademark Protection
LegalWiz.in has helped thousands of tech-driven businesses—from SaaS startups and IT consultancies to software development firms—secure their brand identity through accurate trademark registration under Class 42.
Why Choose LegalWiz.in for Your Class 42 Trademark Registration?
Whether you’re building the next big SaaS product or offering cutting-edge IT consulting, LegalWiz.in makes trademark protection simple, fast, and reliable.
Here’s why tech businesses prefer us:
- Accurate Class Filing – Avoid rejections with expert classification for software, AI tools, cloud platforms, and IT services.
- 100% Online Process – Register your technology trademark from anywhere in India with zero paperwork hassle.
- Transparent Pricing – Flat-fee packages designed for startups, freelancers, and established tech brands.
- End-to-End Legal Support – From filing to objection handling, our IP experts stay with you at every step.
- Pan-India Brand Trust– We’ve supported thousands of software and IT service providers across India.
Get Your Trademark Registered Today!
Register under Trademark Class 42 with LegalWiz.in and ensure your name stands out—legally and commercially.
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Frequently Asked Questions
I built a custom mobile app. Can I trademark it under Class 42?
You may need both Trademark Class 9 and Class 42, depending on what aspect of the app you’re protecting:
- Class 9 covers the downloadable software itself—including mobile apps, desktop programs, and application files. If your app is available for users to download (like from the App Store or Play Store), the software product falls under Trademark Class 9.
- Class 42 covers software development and technology services. If you’re offering services like custom app development, SaaS platforms, or cloud-based software solutions, your software-related services should be registered under Trademark Class 42.
My company offers both IT support and business consulting. Do I need multiple classes?
Yes. Business consulting should be registered under Class 35, while IT support belongs in Class 42.
What’s the difference between Class 9 and Class 42 for tech products?
Class 9 covers physical software products (like downloadable apps), while Class 42 protects service-based software (like cloud or SaaS platforms).
How can I check if my software name is already trademarked?
You can perform a Class 42 trademark search to check for existing trademarks and avoid conflicts.
Can I register a trademark before launching the service?
Yes, you can file based on intended use. You’ll need to show your bona fide intent to use the mark commercially.
What happens if I choose the wrong class?
If you choose the wrong trademark class, your application may still get processed, but your trademark won’t be legally protected for the relevant services. This means others could legally use a similar mark in that correct class, and you wouldn’t have grounds to stop them. Moreover, trademark fees are non-refundable, so you’d have to file a new application in the correct class and pay the fees again.
How long does registering a trademark take?
Trademark registration in India typically takes 6 months to 2 years, depending on any objections or third-party opposition. For a detailed overview of the process, read our complete guide on trademark registration process in India.
How long is my trademark valid, and how often should I renew it?
In India, a registered trademark is valid for 10 years. You must renew it every 10 years—either within 6 months before or after expiry—to maintain your rights.
Amisha Shah
Amisha Shah heads content at LegalWiz.in, where she transforms complex legal concepts into clear, actionable insights. With extensive experience in legal, fintech, and business services, she helps startups and enterprises navigate regulatory challenges through engaging, accurate content that empowers informed business decisions.
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