Software license control

摘要

A system for software license control is described that is particular useful for use in a virtualized system, such as a cloud computing system. A module can be made available for use within the virtualized network, wherein a license fee is payable for use of the module. The module includes a license file that can be located wherever it is required. In addition, a central license file is provided at an administration node. The central license file is configured such that it can only be operated from that administration node, thereby preventing the copying of that file. The license file operating in the virtual network communicates with the central license file. The central license file controls the use of the licensed module.

主权项

1. A method in a cloud computing environment, the method comprising:
running an application software in the cloud computing environment by a virtual machine in a guest operating system, the virtual machine includes a first license file and a local license management software in the same guest operating system, the first license file being identified by a unique identifier and not being locked to any hardware; controlling usage of features and capacities of the application software provided by the virtual machine by the local license management software in combination with the first license file; receiving from the application software a request for access to a feature for which a license is required; consulting, by the local license management software, the first license file to determine whether or not to provide provisional access to the feature; and communicating, by the local license management software, with an administration node, the communicating including at least sending a request including at least the unique identifier to the administration node, wherein the administration node includes a second license file that is locked to the administration node and paired with the first license file of the virtual machine by means of the unique identifier, wherein the second license file is configured such that it can only operate when installed at said administration node and wherein the administration node is configured to use said second license file to determine whether or not access to said feature should be granted, wherein access to said feature is denied in the event that a predefined access limit has been reached.