Licensing Models
There are mainly two types of licenses which are Node-Locked and Floating. However, they can be extended
by using TXT values in the license.
Node-Locked License
Node-Locked license tied to a specific machine or device, meaning that the software can only be used on
the designated hardware. This type of license is ideal for users who require a stable, fixed environment
and do not need to switch the software between different devices frequently.
To transfer the license to another computer, it must be deactivated first then re-activated on the new
computer.
Floating License
A floating license, also known as a network license or concurrent license, allows multiple users to
access a software application, but with a limit on how many users can use it at the same time.
If a floating license deactivated, it is released and other users may use it. Floating licenses are
checked with 10 minutes intervals for active connection, if it is not activate, it is relaased.
To keep floating license active, a DNS query for license activation must be performed at most 10 minutes
apart. A scheduled task may perform in the software to keep it active.
Various types of licenses can be implemented by utilizing TXT values. The licensing models described
below are extensions of the basic node-locked and floating license types.
A node-locked license restricts the software to a specific machine, while a floating license allows
multiple users to access the software across a network, but limits the number of simultaneous users.
Once you have selected the primary license type that best fits your needs, you can enhance it by
incorporating additional features or functionalities. These customizations enable the creation of
tailored licensing models that cater specifically to your operational requirements and usage scenarios.
This flexibility allows organizations to strike the right balance between accessibility and control over
software usage.
Time-Limited (Expiring) License
Any TXT value is defined to indicate license expiration date or number of days with the generation date.
e.g. Define a TXT value expiration=2025-10-11, after activating the license check for the TXT
value with as expiration. Another example:
Define license generation date as e.g. generated=2025-01-01 then another TXT value as number of
days e.g. 365, after license activation, get the generation date and add number of valid days to
it, you will get the expiration date.
Named License
To bind a software license to a specific operating system username, you have two primary options. The
first option is to use the username itself as the hardware ID during the activation process. This means
that the license will be associated directly with that username, ensuring that only the designated user
can access the licensed features.
The second option involves utilizing TXT values to specify one or more allowed usernames for the
license. This method provides greater flexibility as it allows you to define a list of permissible
users, ensuring that the license can be shared among multiple accounts if necessary. By implementing
either of these methods, you can effectively manage and control how your software license is utilized
within your operating environment.
Trial License
The trial license will become invalid once the designated trial period concludes. To set up a trial
license,
you can easily incorporate a TXT value that defines the exact expiration date of the trial.
Additionally,
it's important to include a feature that distinguishes the license as a trial version. This
differentiation
enables the software to restrict access to certain advanced features while in trial mode, ensuring that
users experience a limited version of the software until they decide to purchase a full license.
Perpetual License
The perpetual licensing model is a traditional approach in the software industry where users are
required to pay a one-time fee to obtain a license for the software. This model allows users to maintain
continuous, lifetime access to the software with no recurring charges. Once the purchase is made, users
can use the software indefinitely, which can be appealing for organizations looking for long-term
solutions without the need for ongoing subscription costs.
Feature Licensing
Feature-based licensing is a flexible approach that allows software vendors to customize licenses
according to the specific needs of their customers. By incorporating a desired number of features into
the license agreement, vendors can offer tailored solutions that cater to various user requirements.
This model enables customers to select only the functionalities they need, potentially reducing costs
for those who do not require the full suite of features available.