Our new network software is compatible with any network in combination with Windows NT, Windows 2000 or Windows 98. The communication is based on TCP/IP sockets provided by Windows. The server may be any Windows 98, Windows NT or Windows 2000 computer in the network, and the clients, running the software, are all computers with the same Domain Name. The network software even allows licenses to be granted to physically distant locations via Dial-up connections

Operations

The server computer has the security key inserted in the LPT1 port and runs the server program, which manages the network licenses. All computers connected to the network can have the application software installed, but only the number allowed by the license limit is able to run the software simultaneously. If the license limit is reached, a new license becomes free as soon as the application is closed on one computer.

• License grants:  Each computer in the network can be granted or refused access to the application software by the server program. The server can disconnect a client if needed.
   
• Waiting lists:  In case the maximum license number is exceeded, the server program manages a waiting list. The client receives a message with its number in the waiting queue, and the application software pops up as soon as its license becomes available.
   
• Time-out:  The idle time of each user is recorded by the server program. A time-out for inactive licenses can be specified: in case there is a waiting list, a client for which the idle time exceeds the time-out value will loose its license in favor of the first in the waiting list.
   
• Maximum usage limit:  The usage time by each client is recorded by the server program. A maximum usage time can be specified: in case there is a waiting list, a client for which the usage time exceeds the maximum usage time will loose its license in favor of the first in the waiting list.
   
• Messaging:  The server can send messages to any or all active clients, for example in case the server will be shut down or if a client will be disconnected.
   
• Usage statistics:  The server program records every usage of each client. Graphical statistics can be displayed about the global load of the network application over longer periods, and the relative usage of each client computer can be shown for any time interval.