Software Protection

7. Creating, Managing and Delivering Licenses

Along with securely protecting software against pirate copies; license management has become increasingly important for growing revenue. CodeMeter and Code MeterAct provide for both: protection and management.

An all-purpose application
For creating and managing licenses you have several options with the CodeMeter System. Gain the power and flexibility of a database-supported solution with CodeMeter License Central. CodeMeter License Central, Enterprise Version, allows your customers to activate via the Internet, and provides for automated integration into your sales and support processes. CodeMeter License Central Enterprise includes many interfaces like: Internet gateways for customers, connectors to ERP/CRM systems, and connectors to online shops.

The Desktop Version of CodeMeter License Central features an easy start for internal license management and is completely scalable up to the Enterprise Version.

Specifically, during the development and test phase, you may use a graphical tool (CodeMeter License Editor) which lets you create licenses – quickly and easily. Or, you can use a command line tool (CmBoxPgm) to create a license within an automated batch process.

If your business model includes scenarios not anticipated by our creation and management tools, then you can use our basic Programming API, or let our Professional Services Team support you.

Remote programming
License programming is done either locally (you program the CodeMeter Stick before delivery), or by remote programming. In the case of software-based protection with CodeMeterAct, the activation generally takes place through remote programming.

Regardless of when and how you programmed a CodeMeter or a CodeMeterAct license, CodeMeter License Central provides you a comprehensive overview of all licenses. Since remote programming is based on file transfer, it is also possible to create or update a license even if the PC is not directly connected to the Internet.

When the PC to which the CodeMeter Stick is connected, or to which the CodeMeterAct license is bound, has a direct connection to the Internet, the file transfer is a background-automated process between CodeMeter License Central and user. All the user has to do is to click the "transfer license" button.

Redundant data management avoided
CodeMeter License Central manages all CodeMeter and CodeMeterAct specific settings. Within CodeMeter License Central you can manage the mapping between your item numbers and the related Firm Codes, Product Codes and any other attributes you desire. This means, your ERP system does not have to know CodeMeter specific data.

On the other hand, CodeMeter License Central does not manage customer data. Only references to customer and order number are managed. This avoids data redundancy and minimizes integration efforts.

Functional principle – ticket system
Think of CodeMeter License Central as a simple ticket system. You enter the order, customer and item number. CodeMeter License Central generates a matching ticket that you are able to print on an invoice, or send to the customer by e-mail. The order entry clerk does not have to learn CodeMeter terminology but works with the one he or she is used to.

You can use the ticket in production if, for example, you need to create a customer-specific CodeMeter Stick. Or you might want to deliver the ticket to the customer. Then the customer uses this ticket in CodeMeter License Central Enterprise directly via the Internet. The ticket is not bound to a specific CodeMeter Stick but is flexibly collectable. This eases logistics.

Do you prefer a less flexible solution? Then define a rule type and arrange for your customized license collecting.

Process integration
Orders placed in your online shop, or recorded in the ERP system through manual order processing, may be automatically transferred to CodeMeter License Central. WIBU-SYSTEMS provides corresponding connectors for many different systems. The data transfer is based on SOAP (XML based). Only small adjustments to the online shop or the ERP system are required. In most cases existing license generators or customer-specific order fields can be used without modification. The activation process is also automated on the customers side.

With a wide assortment of possibilities, ranging from the automated integration into your software; integration into your customized Internet page (optionally with Java, ActiveX, or browser extension); to the manual activation by file transfer: everyone should be able to find an existing solution with the highly secure CodeMeter System.