Glossary · Automation fundamentals, platforms and components
License management
Also known as: Software license management
German: Lizenzmanagement
In software engineering and IT operations, license management is the process of tracking, assigning and complying with the licenses of software used or delivered, including commercial licenses, runtime licenses and open-source licenses.
- Automation components
In one sentence
License management tracks and assigns software licenses, including runtime and open-source licenses, and ensures compliance.
Example
Before shipping a machine, the automation team checks that every HMI runtime and option package on the IPC has a valid license and lists the open-source components used.
Explained in context
Context cards connect this term with others to answer one question. Also in British English and German.
How it applies
- Engineering: Engineering tools and runtimes use license keys, dongles or online activation. Missing runtime licenses can make software stop or run in demo mode.
- Delivery: Open-source components come with obligations, such as providing license texts or source code. A Software bill of materials (SBOM) helps track them.
- Documentation: Include required license notices in the documentation delivered with the product, and describe how customers transfer or renew licenses, for example when an IPC is replaced.
- Maintenance: License expiry dates and dongle locations should be tracked, so that a replaced PC or an expired license does not stop production.
License management vs. license compliance
License management is the operational process. License compliance is its goal: meeting the terms of every license. Both need the same inventory of software components and versions.