Paywall
01 Definition
Paywall meaning: A barrier that restricts content or features until the user pays.
A Paywall blocks access to content or product features until a visitor subscribes or pays. Hard paywalls block everything, while soft or metered paywalls allow limited free access before asking for payment. Placement and messaging affect both conversion and how many visitors leave.
Why it matters
How Paywall fits the work
It is a core way publishers and apps earn subscription revenue, and its design shapes the balance between reach and paying customers.
In context
A news site lets readers view three articles per month, then shows a paywall inviting them to subscribe for unlimited access.
Practical note
Overly aggressive paywalls can cut traffic and visibility if users or crawlers cannot see enough value. Metered access often balances discovery and revenue better than a hard block.