Floating License Server

A floating license server (also known as a concurrent license server or network license server) is a centralized system that manages and distributes a pool of software licenses across multiple users or devices within an organization. Unlike node-locked licenses, which assign a dedicated license to a single user or machine, a floating license server enables a limited number of "seats" or concurrent users to access the software at any given time.

The LICENSE4J framework offers versatility in its floating license implementation. The floating license type can be directly validated against the centralized License Server when the client application is connected to the internet. This provides a straightforward mechanism for managing concurrent software usage online.

Recognizing the need for offline or closed-network deployments, LICENSE4J also provides an Floating License Server. For organizations operating within a disconnected environment or a private, closed network, this server can be installed directly within their own infrastructure. This enables floating licenses to be validated locally, ensuring seamless software access and compliance without requiring an external internet connection. This dual capability allows for flexible deployment models, catering to both cloud-connected and air-gapped network configurations.

To enable floating licenses on an On-Premises Floating License Server installed within a user's closed network, the floating license usage must be generated manually. This process requires obtaining the unique fingerprint of the installed Floating License Server from the user's system after the server has been set up. This server fingerprint is then used to create the specific floating license usage record, allowing licenses to be validated and distributed internally within the organization's network.