Explanation: USoft License Management
To run any USoft product, you need a valid license. This document explains the concepts behind USoft's licensing models to help you understand which one best fits your situation.
Why Licensing?
License management ensures that the use of USoft software components remains within the scope of your license agreement. It controls which features can be used, by how many users, and for how long.
The Two Main Licensing Models
USoft offers two primary models for license delivery: Network and Cloud. The choice between them depends on your infrastructure, security policies, and operational preferences.
1. Network-Based Licensing (On-Premises)
Concept: This model uses a license server that you manage within your own local network. This server holds and serves the licenses for all USoft applications running in that network.
Why this approach?
- Control: Your organization has full control over the license server, as it runs on your own infrastructure.
- Offline Access: It works in environments that are disconnected from the public internet. As long as a client can reach the local license server, it can run.
- Best for: Organizations with strict security policies that limit external network access or those who prefer to manage all infrastructure in-house.
A single computer can also act as its own license server for applications running locally.
2. Cloud-Based Licensing (SaaS)
Concept: This model uses a USoft-managed license server in the cloud. Your USoft applications connect to this cloud server over the internet to validate their license. You don't need to set up or maintain any license server hardware or software yourself.
Why this approach?
- Simplicity: Eliminates the need to install, configure, and maintain a local license server.
- Connectivity: A license is available from anywhere an internet connection is available.
- Best for: Organizations that want to reduce their infrastructure management overhead or have applications running across different locations.
Choosing Between Network and Cloud Licensing
| Consideration | Network License (On-Premise) | Cloud License (SaaS) |
|---|---|---|
| Infrastructure | You manage the server. | We manage the server. |
| Connectivity | Requires local network access. | Requires internet access. |
| Maintenance | Your team is responsible. | We handle all maintenance. |
| Flexibility | Best for fixed, on-site applications. | Ideal for remote or hybrid work. |
Developer Licenses
Concept: Developer Licenses cover the tools you use to build a USoft application — Definer, Web Designer, and the rest of USoft's Development Tools. They're a separate category from Engine Licenses, which cover the runtime processes that run an application once it's built, not the tools used to create it.
Always Cloud-Based: Developer Licenses are only offered as cloud licenses, even in an otherwise network-licensed environment — the same rule Peak Engines follow. In practice, this means developers need an active internet connection to validate their license.
How to Get Your License
Regardless of the model you choose, licenses can be requested by contacting USoft Support.