License and Maintenance FAQs

What is a License with Concurrency?

Concurrent licensing is a software license model that is based on the number of simultaneous users accessing the program. This model deals with software running on a server where users connect via the network. For example, in a 5-user concurrent license, once 5 users are logged on to the program, the 6th user is prohibited. When any one of the first 5 log off, the next person can log on.

Concurrent licensing is offered by Adobe/Macromedia for certain programs, and is most often used in computer labs. For example, if you have a lab of 20 computers and only wish to have any 5 computers accessing the program at a given time, purchase 5 licenses w/concurrency. This is more cost-effective than purchasing 20 individual licenses for each computer.

This licensing model is NOT to be used on standalone workstations. It must only be used in a server environment and must be managed appropriately. Adobe recommends using KeyServer to control how many computers access certain programs, but any similar program will be sufficient.