USPTO Trademark Classes Blog Series: Class 42 – Technology and Scientific Services

Welcome back to our USPTO Trademark Classes Blog Series, where we break down each trademark class to help businesses properly categorize and protect their brands.

In this installment, we’re covering Trademark Class 42, which includes technology services, software development, scientific research, and website hosting. If your business develops apps, provides SaaS tools, or offers digital solutions, this class may be the right fit for your trademark.

If you’ve ever asked, “Can I trademark my software platform?” or “Does my web development agency fall under Class 42?”, this guide will help clarify whether this classification is appropriate for your brand.

What is Trademark Class 42?

Trademark Class 42 includes services related to science, technology, and innovation, particularly in fields like software development, IT consulting, and data services. This class is commonly used by tech startups, software companies, and web-based platforms.

Some examples of services that might fall under Trademark Class 42 include:

• Software as a Service (SaaS)

• Mobile app and web platform development

• Cloud computing and database hosting

• Website design and maintenance

• Artificial intelligence and machine learning tools

• Cybersecurity and data protection services

• Scientific research and product testing

• Environmental or technological consulting

If your business provides tech-based solutions, builds or hosts digital platforms, or offers scientific research, Trademark Class 42 is likely the appropriate classification.

Why Trademark Class 42 Matters for Your Business

Registering a trademark under Class 42 helps protect your brand in the fast-paced and competitive tech and digital services industries. Here’s why filing in this class might be important:

1. Protects your brand name in the software and tech space – Many apps and platforms use similar terms. A trademark helps make your brand distinct and defensible.

2. Supports investor readiness and acquisition value – A registered trademark can strengthen your IP portfolio and valuation.

3. Reinforces trust with users and clients – Whether you're launching a consumer app or B2B tool, a trademark adds credibility.

4. Facilitates international expansion and licensing – If you license your platform or operate across borders, a trademark ensures consistent protection.

Examples of Trademarks in Class 42

Many major tech companies and SaaS platforms have trademarks registered under Class 42. Here are a few examples:

• Salesforce® – For customer relationship management (CRM) software services

• Shopify® – Registered for online store building and hosting

• OpenAI® – For artificial intelligence platforms and research tools

These brands rely on Class 42 protection to secure their software platforms, technology offerings, and digital infrastructures.

Do You Need a Trademark Search Before Filing in Class 42?

Yes—a trademark search is especially important in Class 42. The tech industry is saturated with overlapping names, especially for apps, platforms, and cloud services.

At Brand Diplomacy, we conduct full trademark clearance searches and assess risk to help you make informed decisions before you file.

How to Determine if Class 42 is Right for Your Trademark

If you’re unsure whether Trademark Class 42 is the correct category for your business, consider the following:

1. Does your business offer or develop software, web platforms, or digital services?

   • Class 42 likely applies to these services.

2. Do you provide cloud-based access to tools, data, or hosted services?

   • SaaS and PaaS offerings generally fall under this class.

3. Do your services overlap with other trademark classes?

   • Many tech businesses file in multiple classes. For example:

     • Class 9 for downloadable software or mobile apps

     • Class 35 for business consulting or e-commerce services

     • Class 41 for educational or training components

If your offering spans different types of products and services, you may need to file in multiple classes for full coverage.

How Brand Diplomacy Can Help

At Brand Diplomacy, we work with startups, developers, SaaS companies, and web platforms to protect their most valuable asset—their brand.

Whether you’re launching an AI product, developing a software tool, or scaling a cloud-based solution, we can help you:

• Clear your brand name with a thorough trademark search

• Determine the right trademark classes for your offering

• Prepare and file your trademark application

• Respond to USPTO office actions and monitor your trademark after registration

If you’re ready to secure your brand in Class 42, contact us today to get started.

What’s Next in Our Trademark Class Series?

Thank you for exploring Trademark Class 42: Technology and Scientific Services with us! Up next, we’ll cover Trademark Class 43: Hospitality and Food Services, where we’ll look at trademarks for restaurants, catering services, hotels, and travel accommodations.

Stay tuned as we continue guiding you through the USPTO trademark classes, helping you make informed decisions for your brand!