Glossary A–ZLetter S
Software licence
A software licence is the contractually granted right to use software to a defined extent, for example for a number of devices or users or for a period of time.
Technically, it is often represented by a key or an activation in the management software.
In screen networks, licensing is usually per player or per screen, sometimes also per user or feature set. Common models are subscriptions running monthly or yearly and perpetual licences without a time limit, often with a separate maintenance contract for updates. A new player is registered in the management software and is given a licence slot; only then does it show content.
What happens on expiry is important: does the player keep playing, show a notice or go dark? Equally important is whether a licence can be transferred to a replacement device and whether it is tied to the device ID. With perpetual licences, the right of use may continue while updates end with the maintenance contract. Operators should record licences in the device inventory and keep an eye on terms. Licences for content such as images or music are a separate matter.