Licensing

How software is licensed

Choosing the right model

Most software is sold under one of a handful of licensing models. The right one depends on how a team actually works: who uses the tool, how often, and on which machines. Below is a plain summary of the common models and the terms that usually apply. We use this to match each product in your project to the model that fits, and to size the seat count and term.

Common Models

Licensing models explained

Per seat (named user)

A license is assigned to a specific person. It fits teams where the same people use the software regularly. The count equals the number of named users, not the number of machines.

Per device

A license is tied to a machine, and anyone who signs in to that machine may use the software. This works well for shared workstations, labs, or shift-based use.

Floating (concurrent)

A pool of licenses is shared across many users through a license server. You pay for peak simultaneous use rather than for every person who might open the tool. Good for occasional or rotating use.

Subscription

The license runs for a fixed term, usually annual, and includes updates and support for that period. Costs are predictable and spread over time. Use stops when the term ends unless it is renewed.

Perpetual with maintenance

You buy the license once and keep the right to use that version indefinitely. An optional maintenance plan adds updates and support. This suits software you expect to run for a long time.

Volume and multi-vendor

When several teams or several publishers are involved, licenses can be bought in volume and their terms and renewal dates aligned, so one project does not end up with a dozen separate contracts.

What to expect

Typical terms

Prices are quoted in US dollars and include the advisory work of matching the model to your project.
Payment is due in advance, by bank wire transfer or cheque, made directly to US-Lab.
Licenses are ordered only after you confirm, and only from publishers or authorized distributors.
Delivery is electronic: keys, activation details and the publisher’s terms of use, sent by email.
Use of the software is governed by the publisher’s own license terms.
We keep records of every purchase and can show the publisher and distributor invoices on request.

Full terms are set out in our Terms of Sale.

Not sure which model you need?

Tell us about the project and the tools involved, and we will recommend the licensing and prepare a single quote.

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