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License control via CodeMeter soft files

WIBU-SYSTEMS AG
WIBU-SYSTEMS AG
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License control via Wibu-Systems CodeMeter soft files

This page focuses on software-based license management, one of the three types of control that Wibu-Systems can provide licenses for.

For other license controls, click here

*Wibu-Systems and CodeMeter are registered trademarks of WIBU-SYSTEMS AG.

For more information about Wibu-Systems' CodeMeter, please see here: Software Protection, Encryption and Licensing Solutions

Soft File-Based License

The soft license format CmActLicense allows you to provide a license in the form of a soft file without using a hardware dongle.
License activation/update is possible not only online but also offline by transferring the file to a PC/device.
SmatBind® (Wibu-Systems patented technology) binds the unique information of each PC/device, eliminating the risk of the license being duplicated and used on other PCs/devices.
CodeMeter® SmartBind® is a new concept in binding licenses that connect to PCs and devices.

CodeMeter license type: Software file functions

WebDepot

By using the License Central/Webdepot function provided by CodeMeter, you can provide licenses to end users simply by providing them with a ticket ID, entering it into a web screen, and clicking to activate.
Webdepot's screens are customizable.
By default, it supports 10 languages (Japanese, German, English, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Russian, and Chinese).

Example) Procedure for customizing the screen for Nexty Electronics

1. ISV (Independent Software Vendor) sends Webdepot URL and ticket ID to end users via email etc.

2. The end user enters the ticket ID into the Webdepot screen.

3. The license is activated on the end user's PC/device

4. End users can use ISV application software

You can customize the screen using the WebDepot function.

Secure License File

This is a software-based license that uses a unique encryption method.

CmActLicense consists of a signed and encrypted license file for software protection. Software publishers have full control over whether and how their licenses are bound to users' computers. The unique encryption method used for license files allows private symmetric and asymmetric keys to be stored securely on users' computers.
The CmActLicense allows software publishers to independently encrypt and decrypt data using symmetric or asymmetric algorithms such as AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman), or ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography).

Automatic binding: CodeMeter SmartBind®

A patented solution that combines security and flexibility.

CodeMeter SmartBind is a patented solution for binding CmActLicenses to computers and devices, combining security and flexibility. CodeMeter SmartBind creates a fingerprint of the end user's computer, recording several hardware properties such as hard disk, motherboard, network card, CPU, etc.
The fingerprint automatically takes into account the end-user's environment and operating system. Virtual environments and their unique characteristics are also automatically detected.
A patented tolerance mechanism ensures that the CmActLicense and the encryption key stored in the license file remain valid even if the computer hardware is replaced within the selected tolerance level.
Software publishers can choose from the following tolerance levels:
1: SmartBind Tight
2:SmartBind Medium (standard)
3: SmartBind Loose

Individual Binding

Automatically selects the best binding mechanism for the CmActLicense.

SmartBind automatically selects the best binding mechanism for your CmActLicense. If you want to configure the binding yourself, CodeMeter offers the following options:

option
Select random numbers for properties related to the hard drive (D), network card (N), CPU (C), and motherboard (B), machine SID, IP address, and custom implementation using Binding Extension.

Safe updates and easy distribution

Licensing is available online or via file sharing.

CmActLicense stands out for its straightforward distribution method: the user installs the software on their computer and activates the license online or via file sharing. A remote file containing the machine fingerprint is then generated and transferred to the software vendor. The software vendor then creates a remote update file that can be imported only once on the target computer.
This process allows you to activate, upgrade, and deactivate licenses. Using tamper-proof receipts, CodeMeter automatically verifies successful actions. License updates are sent automatically by CodeMeter License Central.

Use in a virtual environment

Using a CmActLicense in a virtual environment is easy and safe. The following options are available:
Activation within a virtual machine for high availability solutions
Virtual machines and licenses can be freely moved, and you can set up a mechanism to invalidate licenses when a virtual machine is copied.

CodeMeter Licensing Model

We can create a variety of license models, so we will guide you through the optimal license setup method based on your sales strategy.

License ModelContent
Single User LicenseThe license is stored on the local PC, on a local device, or on a CmDongle connected to the local PC.
The software runs on the same computer/machine.
Feature-on-Demand LicenseIndividual licenses are used to enable specific product features and modules.
This allows you to generate additional revenue through the sale of add-ons.
Network LicenseLicenses are stored on a license server within the network.
It is used on a PC as a floating license.
License with Downgrade RightsThis license includes the right to optionally use older versions of the program.
This license allows the customer to migrate all clients to the new version at a later date,
Software publishers are not required to sell old releases.
License with upgrade rightsThis license includes the right to use new versions of the program at your option.
With this type of license, your revenue will not drop until a new version is released.
Demo/Trial LicenseUsers will only have Access to your designated software features for a limited time.
Rental/lease/subscriptionSpecify the validity period of your license. CodeMeter License Central
You can automatically extend the validity period of your license.
Perpetual LicenseThe license is issued as a perpetual license and will never expire.
Pay-per-use licenseBilling is based on the number of units used. Whether billing is time-based or feature-based
You can also decide whether to pay before or after use.

Related Product Information 

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