What is a Cloud License Server?
A Cloud License Server hosts licensing services in the cloud instead of requiring installation on local infrastructure. This model allows software vendors to activate and manage licenses remotely without manual server setup at the customer site.
By abstracting away hardware and network dependencies, cloud license servers:
- Simplify the delivery and activation process
- Enable real-time license provisioning
- Improve license compliance monitoring
- Support dynamic scaling and usage-based monetization
- Eliminate complex on-premise configuration
Why use a Cloud License Server?
Traditional license servers require local setup, IT maintenance, and ongoing support. A cloud-hosted model removes that burden, allowing faster time-to-value and more flexible licensing arrangements for end users.
Local vs. Cloud License Servers
| Feature | Local License Server | Cloud License Server |
| Requires infrastructure | Yes | No |
| Scales easily | No | Yes |
| Maintenance effort | High | Low |
| Activation flexibility | Limited | High |
| Supports remote teams | No | Yes |
Benefits of Cloud Licensing
Cloud license servers allow organizations to:
- Serve global users without VPN or hardware limits
- Issue time-bound or metered licenses dynamically
- Adapt to hybrid and SaaS deployment models
- Respond faster to overuse or compliance flags
How Cloud Licensing supports DevOps and remote work
With decentralized development and user teams, centralized cloud licensing ensures that activation is seamless and installation workflows aren't hindered by local restrictions or server downtime.
Integration with installation solutions
Cloud license servers work in tandem with tools like InstallShield to simplify activation during install and post-install.
Watch this short video to learn more about InstallShield:
Resources
Data Sheet
InstallShield 2025
Build Seamlessly in the Cloud with InstallShield Licensing Capabilities
Data Sheet
Compare InstallShield Versions
Compare features by the latest releases.
Webinar
Enabling Successful Software Installs with New Digital Signing Standards
Register for the upcoming webinar and be better equipped you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate changes to digital signing standards effectively for a seamless installation experience.
Data Sheet
Cloud License Server with InstallShield
Get your questions answered about how to eliminate the time and effort required to set up and manage local License Servers. Easily configure your builds from the DevOps build pipeline with InstallShield’s Cloud License Server.
Online Event
“Unpacking MSIX”: Panel Discussion
Watch this roundtable discussion to learn more about how developers can retain as much code as possible as they continue to innovate and modernize applications.
Webinar
TechTalk: InstallShield “Suite” Secrets
In this TechTalk you’ll learn about Suite, a project type within InstallShield, and how it resolves the problem of installing multiple packages, learn how Windows features in Suite works, and how secure it is to send packages via an installer.
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Is Revenera’s Cloud License Server Right for You?
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