What Is a Light User and How Does Course Access Work?
Understanding the difference between Full Users and Light Users is essential for ensuring the right people have the right level of access to your training content. This article explains what a Light User is, how course access works for them, and what to do if you're converting a Full User to a Light User.
What Is a Light User?
A Light User is a limited-access learner profile designed for short-term or scoped learning. Unlike Full Users who have unrestricted course access for the duration of their enrollment, Light Users:
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Can only take a limited number of courses
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Have access for a limited number of days
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Are automatically deactivated after that time period expires
Both the course limit and time window are configured on your organization's needs
What Can Light Users Access?
Despite the limitations, Light Users still enjoy a smooth learning experience within their boundaries:
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They can freely access any course assigned or self-selected—up to the configured course limit
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Once they’ve reached that limit, additional courses cannot be accessed unless they are reactivated or upgraded
This setup makes Light Users a great fit for short-term initiatives, seasonal learners, pilot programs, or re-engagement campaigns.
What If a Full User Is Converted to a Light User?
A common question we receive:
"If a learner starts as a Full User and is later converted to a Light User, what happens to their course access?"
Here’s what you need to know:
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Any courses previously assigned to them will remain accessible and active
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Their access will now be limited by the Light User settings (course count + number of active days)
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Once their access window ends, they’ll be deactivated automatically
Reactivating a Light User
When reactivated, their course access will reset based on the current Light User settings, giving them a new opportunity to take additional content (up to the limit again). This is a helpful feature for phased or recurring use.
💡 Common Scenarios and Tips
| Scenario | Access Outcome |
|---|---|
| New user is created as a Light User | Limited by course count and active days |
| Full User is converted to Light User | Retains visibility to previously assigned courses, now access will be limited moving forward |
| Light User is reactivated | Access resets based on settings at time of reactivation |
Best Practice:
If you anticipate needing a learner to access a broader set of content for an extended time, consider assigning them as a Full User. If access can be time-bound or limited, Light Users are a flexible, cost-efficient option.
Need Help?
Still have questions? Contact Support for more information about managing user access levels.