An iRex employee must have followed this because they revised their Website, clearifying the difference between free and extended:
Free: Developers can connect to the iLiad using a SSH connection over TCP/IP and logon to a development account where they can add additional executables (format viewers) on the iLiad.
Extended: With direct iRex support which will come at a cost, for companies that are in need for a full development support tool. Next to a specially prepared iLiad the SDK contains a professional JTAG probe allowing advanced debug options and a full engineering staff is available for technical support.
So free should be sufficient for our "needs"
