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Subsetting is the practice of creating a “subset” of a font—a file that contains a custom (and usually limited) collection of glyphs.

An abstract representation of subsetting, where certain characters are separated out from the font file.

There are numerous scenarios where subsetting may be desirable:

  1. When a font delivery service wishes to optimize the file size of a web font.
  2. When a foundry wishes to offer a limited character set as a trial font.
  3. When a developer wishes to strip unrequired languages from a web font.
  4. When a foundry (or designer) wishes to distribute a collection of glyphs for a specifics use, as was the way with small caps or stylistic sets prior to the arrival of OpenType.
  5. When a foundry wishes to create a customized collection of glyphs (perhaps with modifications) for a client.

There are many online services that can generate subsets for the user on-the-fly, but it’s important to consider whether a particular font license allows for subsetting or not.