Serving OpenLM EasyAdmin using Apache HTTP Server

OpenLM is an application dedicated to the management of  Macrovision FLEXnet (Globetrotter FLEXlm). EasyAdmin is OpenLM's reporting component and it is an Http based application. EasyAdmin can be viewed with Internet browser from any station in the network.

By default, EasyAdmin is installed together with OpenLM Server and it is served by a dedicated HTTP server, which is also distributed with OpenLM Server install pack. After your organization decides to use OpenLM, we recommend to serve OpenLM EasyAdmin application by your organizational HTTP server in order to allow access to FLEXlm reports from any site.

This short guide outlines the steps required in order to serve your OpenLM EasyAdmin application by using your Apache HTTP server. In this guide we assume that Apache is not located on the same server as OpenLM. If your Http Server is located on on the same server as OpenLM Server it is recommended to create a Virtual Directory instead of copying the EasyAdmin Folder as demonstrated here.

 

The OpenLM EasyAdmin will be installed under the default web site, and will be accessed by using the following URL: http://<server name>/EasyAdmin

This tutorial was created using Apache HTTP server that is installed on Windows XP. The same steps apply to Apache server that can be installed on other operating systems.

Step 1: Copy EasyAdmin folder from OpenLM installation folder to the Apache HTDOCS folder

Step 2: Start OpenLM EasyAdmin using url http://localhost:82/EasyAdmin/openlm_easy_admin.html

OpenLM is now published under the default web site of your organizational server. Every system administrator or permitted user can now access FLEXlm reports, release orphaned licenses, draw usage charts, watch FLEXlm statistics, list active FLEXlm users and query the usage patterns of any specific user.


OpenLM EasyAdmin is included in every version of the OpenLM software system. OpenLM light version includes the EasyAdmin application as well, however it comes with less reporting options compared to the full OpenLM versions: OpenLM Utilizer for FLEXlm and OpenLM for ESRI ArcGIS. When using OpenLM with all its unique features, you should save a lot of money by greatly improving the use of your expensive FLEXlm licenses.

Access control for EasyAdmin using Apache HTTP Server

The use of OpenLM for the management of FLEXnet license servers provides a unique set of tools for managers and system administrators. Features range from a simple inventory management, to usage patterns and billing reports. OpenLM EasyAdmin supplies a wide range of license statistics, FLEXnet reports and management tools. The ability to control access to EasyAdmin is very important when the tool is distributed among many users.

OpenLM includes a built in web server in order to make sure that new users are able to install the software and use EasyAdmin flawlessly. Following the initial evaluation period of the software, we strongly recommend to move EasyAdmin to your preferred web server: IIS, Apache etc. Check the following article that explains how to setup OpenLM on Apache HTTP server.

Apache server supports different methods that allow you to restrict access to EasyAdmin:

1. By user - Authentication and Access control.
   


2. By Host - IP address and domain name restrictions.
   

More detailed information is available at Apache foundation site: http://httpd.apache.org/docs/1.3/howto/auth.html#access

Authentication methods supported by Apache

Basic Authentication - The most basic authentication method available,suffers from many cavities including slow authentication and security problems. Despite these problems this method is probably sufficient for protecting OpenLM EasyAdmin in an internal company network.

Digest Authentication - Same as basic authentication but it encrypts passwords and by doing that solves one of the main cavities of the Basic Authentication methods.

Database Authentication methods - One of the major problems of both the Basic and Digest Authentication methods is that the user and passwords are stored in a plain text file. Database authentication methods allows system managers to store passwords in database.

In this article we will demonstrate the Basic Authentication method.

Step A: Create the password file

Password file creation is done by using the Apache command htpasswd.exe

We created a password file with one user. Now we can add users using the same utility.

Step B: Set the configuration to use this password file

Open your Apache server configuration file: httpd.conf. Locate the virtual directory defined for EasyAdmin or add one. And add authentication to this virtual directory.


# EasyAdmin Virtual Directory

Alias /EasyAdmin "C:\Program Files\Apache Software Foundation\Apache2.2\htdocs"
<Directory "C:\Program Files\Apache Software Foundation\Apache2.2\htdocs">
        Options Indexes MultiViews FollowSymLinks
        AllowOverride All
        Order allow,deny
        Allow from all
       
        # Limit access to EasyAdmin
        AuthType Basic
        AuthName "By Invitation Only"
        AuthUserFile "C:/Program Files/Apache Software Foundation/Apache2.2/passwords/passwords"
        Require user oren

</Directory>

Step c: Access OpenLM EasyAdmin

Now OpenLM EasyAdmin is password protected. If a HTTPS protocol is used then passwords will be encrypted as well as all other communication between the server and the browser.

This example is basic, more complex and secure methods are available by the use of Apache HTTP server.

Summary

The implementation of access control for EasyAdmin is very simple if you serve EasyAdmin with an Apache HTTP server. There are two categories of tools, based on host or on user. The methods that are based on user authentication are more flexible and offer different levels of security, depending on the organization's needs.

The use of OpenLM for the management of FLEXnet license servers provides a unique set of tools for managers and system administrators. Features range from a simple inventory management, to usage patterns and billing reports. OpenLM EasyAdmin supplies a wide range of license statistics, FLEXnet reports and management tools. The ability to control access to EasyAdmin is very important when the application is distributed among many users.

What is new in version 1.5.1.2 of OpenLM

Version 1.5.1.2 of OpenLM is a maintenance release that fixes several issues which were found in version 1.5.1.1

The issues that were addressed in this version are:

• Full support for ArcGIS 9.3.
• Redesign of Workstations TAB in OpenLM EasyAdmin (Available only in the full version).
• Enhancements to the usage charts in EasyAdmin.
• Fix a problem that was found at OpenLM for ESRI ArcGIS when working with "overwrite existing projects" mode.

How to configure OpenLM "Denial Notifications"

Denial notification is a very useful new feature in OpenLM version 1.5. This feature is very effective in optimizing the usability of existing licenses.

Please watch this short video in order to see how it works.

In order to enable the Denials feature it necessary to install and configure the Log Reader as a first step. Please follow these steps and make sure that you are able to see the Denials Reports in your EasyAdmin Denial Tab.

Now you need to open the OpenLM Server configuration form and move to the OpenLM Agent Policy Tab. Check the "Available License Notification" and set the desired "Reservation Period" or accept the default (60 minutes).

Click apply and restart the server.

Make sure that your users have OpenLM Agent version 1.5.1.1. Otherwise, they will not be able to get the notifications.

How to install OpenLM Log Reader on your FLEXlm server

What is the purpose of OpenLM Log Reader?

OpenLM Log Reader is a daemon service that reads FLEXlm debug log file and sends the information to OpenLM Server.

The action enables OpenLM to offer additional capabilities:

• Store important information in OpenLM Database.
• Store and report information about license denials that users experience.
• Send users notice when the software they need becomes available.

How is the OpenLM Log Reader implemented?

OpenLM is a Java program that can run on multiple platforms - Windows, UNIX, Linux and more. OpenLM Log Reader for Windows is distributed with an MSI installer that installs the files to the hard disk and creates a windows service called: OpenLM Log Reader.

How to install?

OpenLM Log Reader on Windows Installation is a typical "Next, Next" installation. Double Click the MSI file and follow the instructions. Following to the software installation a new service is added to windows services. The service is yet to be configured and theretofore will not get started just yet.

Requirements

OpenLM Log Reader service configuration requires some data regarding the monitored license manager. It is simple to collect the information by using LMTOOLS program - lmtools.exe.

Open LMTOOLS and go to the "Config Services" tab. Locate the path of FLEXlm debug log file and copy and save it for the next step.

Once done, go to the "Services" tab and click the "Perform Status Inquiry" button. The text will show in the window in the top search for the string similar to: 27000@license_server_status

You will need the port and server name for the next stage.


OpenLM Log Reader configuration

You have to configure OpenLM Log Reader so it will be able to track your log file.

Navigate to OpenLM Log Reader installation folder: C:Program FilesGlobalMapsOpenLMLogReader

Open the file config.xml using your favorite text editor.

You need to modify several parameters in order to allow OpenLM Log Reader, to read and send the information to the OpenLM Server. The required information is:

1. The name of OpenLM server.
2. The name of FLEXlm server (exactly as shown in FLEXlm output).
3. The port of FLEXlm server.
4. Path to FLEXlm debug log file.
   

An example (attributes that need to be edited are marked red):

<ulm>
<receiver receiver_url="http://openlm_server:7016/OpenLMServer" sending_time_out="45"/>

<log_files>
<log server="license_manager_name" port="27000" file_path="C:Templmgrd9.log" size_limit="1" time_interval="10"/>
<log server="license_manager_name" port="9857" file_path="C:Tempacadlmgrd_acad.log" size_limit="1" time_interval="10"/>
...
</log_files>
</ulm>

Any number of port/files can be added, according to the number of FLEXlm servers that run on the machine. When you are done with all the modifications, restart the OpenLM Log Reader server.

How to install OpenLM Log Reader on UNIX/Linux

The purpose OpenLM Log Reader is to send the information from FLEXlm report log to OpenLM server. You have to install OpenLM Log Reader on every FLEXlm server you monitored by OpenLM. If you have more then one FLEXlm server installed on one server you will need only one installation on the server, it will monitor all the log files.

OpenLM Log Reader was developed using Java so it can run on any operating system supported by FLEXlm floating license manager.

First download OpenLM Log Reader software from OpenLM website downloads area. The download include the following files and folders:

Main folder: openlm_log_reader

lib - Java libraries used by OpenLM Log Reader.
openlm_log_reader.jar - Log Reader executable.
openlm_log_reader_config.xml - OpenLM Log Reader configuration file.
openlm_log_reader.properties - Logger properties.

The steps we need in order to accomplish the task are:
1. Make sure that JRE with version of at least 1.5 is available on the machine (where you typically install software /usr/local).
2. Copy the software to the FLEXlm server (where you typically install software /usr/local).
3. Create a software service that will start with the operating system and run in the background (command: java -jar MyLogReader.jar config.xml).
4. Configure the software.


Configure the path of your log file (Optional)

Edit openlm_log_reader.properties and modify the log file path so it will fit your installation. By default it will create a directory named log under the installation folder.

Configure OpenLM Log Reader (Mandatory)

Open the file config.xml using your favorite text editor.

You need to modify several parameters in order to allow OpenLM Log Reader, to read and send the information to the OpenLM Server. The required information is:

1. The name of OpenLM server.
2. The name of FLEXlm server (exactly as it shows in FLEXlm output).
3. The port of FLEXlm server.
4. Path to FLEXlm debug log file.
   

An example (attributes that need to be edited are marked red):

<ulm>
<receiver receiver_url="http://openlm_server:7016/OpenLMServer" sending_time_out="45"/>

<log_files>
<log server="license_manager_name" port="27000" file_path="C:Templmgrd9.log" size_limit="1" time_interval="10"/>
<log server="license_manager_name" port="9857" file_path="C:Tempacadlmgrd_acad.log" size_limit="1" time_interval="10"/>
...
</log_files>
</ulm>

Any number of port/files can be added, according to the number of FLEXlm servers that run on the machine. When you are done with all the modifications, restart the OpenLM Log Reader server.

Using OpenLM free version to manage your FLEXlm server

Summary

FLEXlm is a floating license manager that is widely used by high end software manufactures. FLEXlm command line based interface is very inconvenient and extremely limited. Most companies need the ability to monitor usage time, have a convenient management interface, manage multiple servers, produce billing reports and a lot more.
OpenLM is a cost effective alternative to Accresso FLEXnet manager. OpenLM Light is a free version targeted towards small teams with a single FLEXlm floating license server.
This article shows how the free version of OpenLM can manage your FLEXlm server.

Short

FLEXlm is a floating license manager that is widely used by high end software manufactures. Most companies need the ability to monitor usage time, have a convenient management interface, manage multiple servers, produce billing reports and a lot more.
OpenLM is a cost effective alternative to Accresso FLEXnet manager. This article shows how the free version of OpenLM can manage your FLEXlm server.

What is FLEXnet (FLEXlm) floating license server

FLEXnet is a license manager which implements both node-locked and floating licensing models.
A node-locked license enables the software user to install and use the software on a specific computer (network node in FLEXlm terminology). However with the floating license model, the software can be installed on any number of computers. In order to activate the software, a license needs to be drawn from the License Pool. Once all licenses are in use, no new users will be able to activate their software, even if they have it installed on their computer.
The number of licenses on the servers are limited to the number of purchased licenses. When the number of simultaneous (concurrent) users is equal to the number of licenses the next user will not be able to activate the software - in FLEXlm terminology this user received a "Denial".

Who is using FLEXnet (FLEXlm) floating license server

The FLEXnet license manager is incorporated into the software products of more then 2000 vendors. Following 20 years of activity, FLEXnet is in use at many organizations, from small companies to global ones. FLEXnet libraries are sold to software vendors that incorporate them into their software. End users receive FLEXnet when they purchase different software packages.

The need

The interface of the FLEXnet software is based mostly on a command line which is very inconvenient and extremely limited. While it might be sufficient for companies with a small number of users and licenses, it is not sufficient for the larger companies. For example, FLEXnet has the ability to reflect some information on license activity in real time, but it does not collect any information on the usage over time.

Recognizing the need, Macrovision (which recently sold it's software unit to Acresso software company) created the FLEXnet manager software which helps system administrators to get real management capabilities on floating licenses in their organizations. OpenLM created a compatible and very cost effective alternative, which includes most of the FLEXnet manager features plus additional features that are available solely at OpenLM.

Using the free alternative - OpenLM Light version

OpenLM is provided in several versions

• OpenLM Utilizer: includes features such as multiple server monitoring, license statistics, reports, billing and much more.

• OpenLM for ESRI ArcGIS: has special extension to allow for unique features, including automatic TIMEOUT capabilities and more.

• OpenLM Light: a free limited version which includes some of the OpenLM software features.

While the investment in OpenLM Utilizer will prove itself worthwhile in a very short time, some small organizations still prefer to use the OpenLM Light - free version.

This article describes the capabilities of the OpenLM Light free version.

OpenLM Architecture

OpenLM is a server application which is normally installed on the license server, but it could also be installed on any server or station just as well.
OpenLM Server is implemented as a Windows Service that is able to monitor any number of Floating License servers (mainly FLEXnet/FLEXlm).
OpenLM EasyAdmin is the OpenLM interface and it is implemented as a web application which can be served by any web server (Apache, Jakarta Tomcat, Microsoft IIS, etc.). OpenLM could be accessed from any workstation on the network, or even externally.

OpenLM Agent is an optional component which could be used to allow end users to query license availability. The use of the Agent offers the ability to enhance license usage in many ways.

OpenLM Installation

OpenLM server is distributed as an MSI file and could be easily installed on a server or Windows XP workstation that has .Net 2 installed.
The installation should take no longer than 5 minutes and it does not require configuration, except the addition of your list of license severs. The free version is limited to only one license server so only one license server can be added.

By default EasyAdmin is installed and served using an embedded web server - SHTTPD. The purpose of distributing SHTTPD is to offer a quick and easy installation of the software. However, it is recommended to install EasyAdmin on a regular HTTP server following the initial installation. This article explains how to install EasyAdmin on your IIS web server - How to install.

The installation of OpenLM EasyAdmin Agent is simple and can be done manually on every workstation or distributed to all workstations automatically. A sample distribution for the KIX script language can be downloaded from OpenLM downloads area.

OpenLM Configuration

OpenLM is automatically configured out of the box therefore only minimal configuration work is required. OpenLM configuration form is simple and friendly as can be seen in the following image (The license servers tab is open):

Additional important configuration is the Notifications configuration which allows OpenLM to send email messages to the system administrator. The relevant parameters can simply be copied from the mail client or taken from the system administrator. Configuring notification will allow OpenLM Server to send messages concerning problems with the license server, updates to OpenLM Software and more.

Software Updates

OpenLM has an automatic software update mechanism that notifies and updates the software automatically as updates become available.
The system is working differently for the Agent and the Server.

OpenLM Server - Message on new versions and updates are sent to the system administrator. The system administrator can, at his convenience, download and update the server.

OpenLM Agent - The update process for the agents is controlled by the system administrator. Once the administrator decides to allow the OpenLM Agents to be updated, he/she can start the process by using the OpenLM configuration form and by directing the new software version into the chosen location (URL or URI), accessible to the workstations.

Management, Reports and FLEXnet license statistics

The free version of OpenLM offers a slick interface for license management and some reporting capabilities that can address the needs of small organizations. OpenLM EasyAdmin control panel page shows information on activity of the license server in four floating windows (limited to only one FLEXlm server while the full version of the software can show the activity of any number of FLEXlm license servers).

The license tab window shows information on the licenses which are available on the server.
A click on the usage button opens a pop-up window which enables the user to draw FLEXlm license statistics with resolution of minutes and hours (the full version of OpenLM supplies daily, weekly and monthly statistics).

Active products enable users to manage the active users in a very efficient way. Showing the listing of active users, removing licenses and additional actions. The filter that pops at the left side of the tab, filters lists that may contain thousands of rows, in a fraction of a second.

All EasyAdmin tabs include easy and convenient filters that enable the user to filter reports according to any value.

The full version of OpenLM includes the workstations user activity and closed process tab, that supply advanced management and statistical tools.

Conclusion

Small companies with one FLEXlm floating license server can enjoy the free OpenLM software to manage their floating licenses. The software enhances the management capabilities of the system administrator and enables more efficient usage of licenses. Both small and larger companies can enjoy significant savings by implementing OpenLM Utilizer, which has many additional features at very low cost.

Oren Gabay, CTO
oren@openlm.com
http://www.openlm.com

Automatic software updates for OpenLM Agent

With the announcement of version 1.5.1 of OpenLM we now support automatic software updates for OpenLM Agent. This article will explain how the automatic update system works and provide users with tips and advice for successful implementation.

Updates to OpenLM Server

Global Maps publishes new versions of OpenLM from time to time and also issues service packs on specific issues that arise between versions. Maintaining your software at the latest updated level, or with the most recent service pack, is the key to ensuring that you always receive the highest possible efficiencies from your floating license server (FLEXlm).

From version 1.5.1 forward, OpenLM server will periodically and automatically check for software updates on OpenLM Server. Once it finds an update relevant to the installed software, the local OpenLM Server will send an update notification to the system administrator, as per the instruction defined by the system administrator on the OpenLM Server Notification tab. If the system administrator did not define such instruction, OpenLM Server will log a message to the System Event Viewer.

The system manager will be able to update the server software immediately by downloading the software from the OpenLM site download area.
In most cases the published package will do all the updates automatically once it has been executed.

Updates to OpenLM Agent software

Background

OpenLM includes optional Agent software, i.e. software that is applied by the user to query license availability and communicate with other users on needed licenses. On supported software systems such as ESRI ArcGIS, the Agent is responsible for closing the licensed software in order to release idle licenses back to the license pool.

There are a number of ways to distribute OpenLM Agent software to end user's workstations:
1. Manual distribution - ideal for smaller companies. Distribution can be done either automatically via the system, or by asking authorized users to install the software.
2. Automatic - OpenLM Agent supports installation and enable configuration of parameters so that software can be easily distributed by using automatic software distribution system such as Microsoft SMS, Altiris-Symantec and others.

3. OpenLM Automatic Software Update - OpenLM Agent will automatically update itself once the system administrator decides to distribute a software update.

Update Process Base Assumptions

The OpenLM Software update process has been designed to operate under the following assumptions and conditions:

• Because OpenLM installation requires an update of registry keys and DLL registration, the installation requires local administrator privileges.
• The system administrator has to control the timing in which the software will be updated. This requirement has been included as system administrators usually prefer to check the update on a test environment before using it in a production environment.
• On some user sites local administrators have authorisation to install software on their workstations, while other sites are fully managed and users are unauthorised to install software on their workstations.
• Fully managed sites have professional staff members which are competent to distribute software by using management systems such as Microsoft SMS and others.
• The Agent update process is able to download the update from OpenLM site or from a local HTTP server or even from a shared folder. When using a local download site, it is the system administrator's responsibility to download the files from OpenLM site and put them in the local update site.
• The software will never update an Agent to a major version which is higher then the server version.
• The software will only update the Agent if the new version is greater then the existing version.
  

The Update Process

A typical update process will usually follow the sequence below:

1. The system manager will receive a message from his local OpenLM Server informing him/her that an update is now available.
2. The system manager will download the update manually and install on a few workstations for testing.
3. The system manager copies the update files and the manifest file to a local http server, or use the OpenLM Server on the Internet as an update source. The location of the manifest file is usually: C:Program FilesGlobalMapsOpenLMServerManifest.
4. The system manager sets OpenLM Server configuration form to distribute updates to agents.
5. The next time an Agent checks for updates on the server, it will find that an update is available.
6. Agents will download the update from the location the server specifies, based on CPU/IO idle times in order to prevent from interfiring with the ongoing work users perform.
7. Once the update has been downloaded, it will run silently in the background and will restart OpenLM Agent automatically.

Important note: Use the automatic update process only when all your users have local administrator's authority enabled on their local machines.

Required Server Settings

Regardless of the update method that you are using, it is essential that your "Notification" setting is operational. It will allow your OpenLM Server to send you messages on software updates which are available on the OpenLM web site.

In the OpenLM Server configuration tab, make sure that the "Notify me about updates..." check box is checked as shown:

If you are using the automatic update feature of OpenLM Agent and you wish to initiate the update, you can start the update process from the OpenLM Server configuration form. Just check the "Update OpenLM Agents Automatically" check box as shown:

The download location can be OpenLM Server or any other HTTP server that the user can access. The system manager will put an updated manifest file under the server folder as shown:

Tracking the update process

OpenLM gives the system manager all the needed tools that allow full tracking and monitoring of the software update process. Using the OpenLM EasyAdmin interface the system manager can get:

• A list of workstations that do not have an agent.
• Workstations with older software version.
• Last time a workstation has communicated with the server.
• The user who is logged into the workstation.
• And more.

This screen lists the workstation that has a communicating Agent and the Agent version:

FLEXlm License Servers consolidation drive to large savings

As the world economy is going through a major turmoil and the budget for hardware and software purchasing is shrinking, managers all over the globe are searching for innovative ways to lower their expenses without hurting workers productivity. One of the "black holes" in every budget at every organization or company that use software (and who doesn't?) is the cost for software maintenance fees, which are paid annually to the software vendors. This article discusses the possibility of phenomenal savings to any budget, by performing a restructuring of the way costly software products managed via floating licenses are being used.

The promise of Floating Licenses: A floating (concurrent) license allows multiple users to share the use of a software application. However, a single license can not be used by multiple users simultaneously. When a user completes his work with the software, another user can begin using it. The promise of the Floating License concept is that shared software assets can provide for less spending, without hurting production. In reality it is rarely achieved and most organizations purchase more floating licenses than are actually needed, for lack of management tools and knowledge.

Acresso Software FLEXnet (FLEXlm) is the leading software in the field of floating licenses. FLEXnet is used by more then 2000 software vendors. Examples are: Autodesk, Borland , Cadence, EDS, Macromedia , Mathsoft, Mathworks , PTC, Rational, Softimage, Solidworks, Sybase, Synopsys, WindRiver, FreeScale, ICS, Foundry, VSNi, Tri-Pacific

Additional source of information for software vendors that use FLEXlm licensing is flexlm.wiselm.com

One of the most important principles when using floating licenses, is that as the number of license servers at use goes down, the efficiency of the network grows. In other words, when a license pool is being split between a growing amount of servers, there is a substance loss of efficiency and less users can take advantage of available licenses. So why does so many organizations use floating license servers in inefficient way?

Reasons for inefficient use of expensive floating licenses

• Historical reasons - A department bought the licenses long ago and managers tend to think of the software as the department's property.

As a result, in many organizations different departments buy duplicated licenses before exploring the option of sharing available licenses.

• Lack of good management tools - FLEXnet (FLEXlm) does not supply management tools as part of the basic package. The lack of good management tools does not allow managers to manage the licenses for best results.

• The need to keep redundant license servers, in order to avoid down time when users are unable to access licenses.

• Sometimes wide area networks are too slow to allow a user to access license servers over the WAN.
  

Successful license server consolidation require the right tools

A successful consolidation process requires careful planning and has to be based on a detailed usage information database, collected over time. Organizations that go forward with the consolidation process are often involved in difficult situations, when trying to manage the combined license pool. However by choosing the correct software tool and some careful planning, will assure the success of the consolidation while providing good license availability and savings of software maintenance fees.

Important features in management tools for license server consolidation include:

• Support for multiple servers

• Support for multiple time zones, for any of the servers or users

• Detailed usage reports

• Alerts for important events

• Billing reports for total time of usage

• Convenient web based interface
• Automatic idle license release - easy timeout setup (advance OpenLM feature)

In conclusion, for a good implementation of a floating license server consolidation program, companies require advance management tool such as Acresso FLEXnet Manager or OpenLM Utilizer. By using these types of applications, system managers should be able to simplify the process and keep tight control over license usage.



Summary

Many organizations use software systems licensed by floating license servers like FLEXnet (FLEXlm). Consolidation of Floating License Servers (FLEXlm) can save a huge amount of money over time (in annual maintenance fees and the need for less licenses overall). Listed in this article are the different reasons for the inefficient usage of this expensive resource. Consolidating the floating license server requires careful planning based on usage information which is collected over a long period of time. Software systems like Acresso FLEXnet manager or OpenLM Utilizer supply the needed features to implement the complex task.


Summary (150)

Many organizations use software systems licensed by floating license servers like FLEXnet. Consolidation of Floating License Servers can save a huge amount of money over time (in annual maintenance fees and the need for less licenses overall). Listed in this article are the different reasons for the inefficient usage of this expensive resource. Software systems like Acresso FLEXnet manager or OpenLM Utilizer supply the needed features to implement the complex task.




Consolidation of FLEXlm servers can save a huge amount of money over time but can be a very complex task. Software like [OpenLM Utilizer|http://www.openlm.com] can help you in accomplishing that.

Many organizations use software systems licensed by floating license servers like FLEXnet (FLEXlm). Consolidation of Floating License Servers (FLEXlm) can save a huge amount of money over time (in ann

We received many requests to explain the "communicating" and "non-communicating" workstations tab - so here it is:

An OpenLM Agent could be installed on end users workstations in order to allow the system to close software and release floating licenses back to the license pool when a user is inactive. So far, OpenLM Agent is installed mostly with OpenLM for ESRI ArcGIS software, since we support the TIMEOUT feature for this software.

Workstations tab in EasyAdmin was designed in order to allow an easy management of Agent installations. EasyAdmin lists the "communicating" and " non-communicating" workstations in two separate lists.

The principle is that a "workstation", as defined for OpenLM, is a workstation that used floating license that is monitored by OpenLM Server, at least once. If a workstation has never accessed any floating license and OpenLM Agent is not installed on it, then OpenLM software will not be aware of it, and it will not be listed in any of the lists.

A communicating workstation is a workstation that has an Agent and it is constantly sending out "AgentAlive" messages to OpenLM Server.

A "non-communicating" workstation is a workstation that accesses floating licenses (which are monitored by OpenLM Server) but does not send out the "AgentAlive" message to the OpenLM Server. When a workstation with an installed Agent that regularly communicates with the server misses several sequential "AgentAlive" requests, it will be also listed in the "non-communicating" list. In the current version 1.5.0, the listing of that workstation is kept in the "communicating" workstations list, but it will be changed in the next version (1.5.1) due to the confusion it is creating. In version 1.5.1, once the workstation stops communicating it will only be listed only in the "non-communicating" list.

How can the system administrator use the workstations tab?

There are many possible examples, here are a few:

• Management of the Agent software distribution: During Agent distribution proses, it is very helpful to track progress using the information displayed in this tab. The distribution process ends when the "non- communicating" list of workstations is empty.
• After distributing OpenLM Agent to all workstations, the system manager can see if any of the Agents has a software problem, wrong settings or if it was deliberately stopped for any reason.
• A great tool to locate unauthorized access to the licenses: In version 1.5.1 the list will include the workstation name, time and the last user that worked on the workstation.

Access control for EasyAdmin using Microsoft IIS

The use of OpenLM for the management of FLEXnet license servers provides a unique set of tools for managers and system administrators. Features are ranging from a simple inventory management, to usage patterns and billing reports. OpenLM EasyAdmin supplies a wide range of license statistics, FLEXnet reports and management tools. The ability to control access to EasyAdmin is very important when the tool is distributed among many users.

OpenLM includes a built in web server in order to make sure that new users are able to install the software and use EasyAdmin. Following the initial evaluation period of the software, we strongly recommend to move EasyAdmin to your preferred web server: IIS, Apache etc. Check the following article that explains how to setup OpenLM on IIS server.

IIS server supports two methods that allow you to restrict access to EasyAdmin:

1. By user - Authentication and Access control.
   
2. By Host - IP address and domain name restrictions.
   

More detailed information is available at Microsoft site: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/324274

By User - Authentication and Access control

By default, when you create a new web site it will receive the default authentication - "Enable anonymous access" which allows any user to access the web site. The following image shows the default settings of a site:

IIS server offers few authentication methods that are based on the NTFS access control lists. Access rights to EasyAdmin are determined according to the access permissions to EasyAdmin folder, as demonstrated in the following image:

The authentication methods supported by IIS are:

Integrated Windows authentication - A secured method based on Microsoft NTLM which is supported both by Microsoft Explorer and Mozilla Firefox. The user will be required to type his user name and password in a popup box and if he/she has permissions to the folder, access will be granted.
This is the highest security method but it is limited only to intranet access with a single domain.

Digest authentication for Windows domain servers - A Medium security authentication method that can be used to gain access from a network with multiple domains, or even outside the network. User and password will be encrypted when transferred over the network. This method only works with Windows domain servers.

Basic authentication - Lowest security method. Based on user credentials that are sent over the network as clear text.

.NET Passport authentication - Based on the Microsoft service, we will not discuss this method here at this point.

By Host - Restrict Access by IP Address and domain name

Alternative method for user access control is done by applying restriction according to host IP or domain. By this method the server will limit or allow access to the EasyAdmin application according to the requesting IP address or domain.

The use of IP address or domain name can be useful to limit access to a group of computers or a sub domain, which includes the system administrators. It can be easily done with IIS:

Usually, the most simple method to apply a host based access restriction is to deny access from everyone and to grant access only to a few carefully selected computers.

Summary

The implementation of access control for EasyAdmin is very simple if you serve EasyAdmin with a IIS server. There are two categories of tools, based on host or on user. The methods that are based on user authentication are more flexible and offer different levels of security, depending on the organization's needs.

The use of OpenLM for the management of FLEXnet license servers provides a unique set of tools for managers and system administrators. Features range from a simple inventory management, to usage patterns and billing reports. OpenLM EasyAdmin supplies a wide range of license statistics, FLEXnet reports and management tools. The ability to control access to EasyAdmin is very important when the application is distributed among many users.

What is expected in version 1.5.1 of OpenLM

OpenLM version 1.5.1 is focused on better license statistics for FLEXlm (FLEXnet). The new version brings improved user interface, advanced queries and a lot more FLEXnet statistics and information.

1. New report for closed software, including when, how, and more.
2. Information added to communicating agents list - agent version and user name was added.
3. Information added to the non-communicating agent list - last heartbeat and last known user.
4. The system will include full support for borrowed licenses in all the system tabs.
5. More information and new style filter was added to the Active Products tab.
6. Immense change in EasyAdmin control panel - servers statistics and system warnings.
7. Addition of a licensing tab to the server configuration form.
8. Automatic updates ability to the OpenLM Agent.
9. Information on updates to OpenLM Server software will be sent automatically to the system manager.
10. OpenLM will display warnings on problems with the floating license manager:
    
1. Near 100% usage.
2. Multiple features held by one user on more then one workstation.
3. Alerts when the FLEXlm server is not available.
   
11. Advanced filtering for all the tabs in EasyAdmin. Allow selection of multiple values to filter by and combination of fields.

Repository of software that use FLEXlm/FLEXnet

A new repository of software systems that use FLEXlm/FLEXnet for licensing was published. The aim of the repository is to list all the software systems that use the FLEXlm/FLEXnet licensing.

The address of the repository is: FLEXnet repository

Global Maps Inc. unveils new version of OpenLM


By Oren Gabay, CTO
Rachel Bahar, CDO
Doron Regev, CMO

OpenLM Utilizer 1.5.0 (Floating software optimizer)

Software developer Global Maps Inc. from Kibbutz Givat Haim Ihud in Israel, has announced the launching of the new version of OpenLM Utilizer.
The software is available for download and EVAUATION at the OpenLM web site.

OpenLM Utilizer is designed to improve the use of all FLEXlm managed software, and is also a very cost effective replacement of FLEXnet Manager and the retired SAMreport.

The main focus of OpenLM version 1.5.0 is to provide support for organizations who work with multiple servers in various timezones. In addition, the new version provides connectivity to Active Directory and OpenLM plans to offer more important management tools, in the following versions at the near future.

New features for OpenLM Utilizer 1.5.0 (for all FLEXlm managed software)

• Ability to work with unlimited FLEXlm servers - including servers in different timezones.
• Support for FLEXlm redundant server configuration (three or five FLEXlm that work together).
• Significant performance improvements in OpenLM EasyAdmin.
• Ability to connect OpenLM server to Active Directory, in order to display additional user's information.
• Ability to hide the OpemLM Agent from the users by the system administrator.
• Actual product name in the "license usage information" and EasyAdmin, instead of the FLEXlm name (FEATURE) of the software.
• Ability to "Filter" licenses list in the EasyAdmin - very useful for large organizations with considerable amount of licenses.
• Option to avoid license information refresh at each query - important for big organizations with numerous amount of licenses.
• Option to limit user access, and deny the ability to query license status information for specific servers.
• OpenLM Agent displays the software version of the Agent and OpenLM Server.
• OpenLM Server version is displayed in the Configuration Form title bar.
• New "user activity" report allows you to query activity for each user/feature combination.
• If you bill projects for software usage you can now use EasyAdmin to get the billing report.

For more information please contact:

Regev Doron, CMO
reggev@openlm.com
Office 972-4-6308085
Mobile 972-52-6811094

Global Maps is a Carbon Neutral Company - we print ONLY when we have to

Global Maps Inc. unveils new version of OpenLM


By Oren Gabay, CTO
Rachel Bahar, CDO
Doron Regev, CMO

OpenLM 1.5.0 for ESRI ArcGIS (Floating software optimizer)

Software developer Global Maps Inc. from Kibbutz Givat Haim Ihud in Israel, has announced the launching of the new version of OpenLM for ESRI ArcGIS software.

The software is available for download and EVALUATION at the OpenLM web site.
OpenLM for ESRI ArcGIS is designed to improve the use of the popular ESRI Desktop ArcGIS family of products: ArcView, ArcEditor and ArcInfo.
OpenLM offers a dramatic improvement in the availability of software licenses to end users and has a significant influence on users productivity.

OpenLM also provide a very cost effective replacement of FLEXnet and SAMreport.

The main focus of OpenLM version 1.5.0 is to provide support for organizations who work with multiple servers in various timezones. In addition, the new version provides connectivity to the Active Directory and OpenLM plans to offer important management tools, in the following versions at the near future.

New OpenLM features for ESRI ArcGIS include:

• A new tool is prompting the user to release unused extensions.
• Ability to exclude folders, so documents in excluded folders will not be saved by OpenLM.
• Ability to control IO and CPU usage levels, which are used to determine if software is active or none active.

• Ability to work with unlimited FLEXlm servers - including servers in different timezones.
• Support for FLEXlm redundant server configuration (three or five FLEXlm that work together).
• Significant performance improvements in OpenLM EasyAdmin.
• Ability to connect OpenLM server to Active Directory, in order to display additional user's information.
• Ability to hide the OpemLM Agent from the users by the system administrator.
• Actual product name in the "license usage information" and EasyAdmin, instead of the FLEXlm name (FEATURE) of the software.
• Ability to "Filter" licenses list in the EasyAdmin - very useful for large organizations with considerable amount of licenses.
• Option to avoid license information refresh at each query - important for big organizations with numerous amount of licenses.
• Option to limit user access, and deny the ability to query license status information for specific servers.
• OpenLM Agent displays the software version of the Agent and OpenLM Server.
• OpenLM Server version is displayed in the Configuration Form title bar.
• New "user activity" report allows you to query activity for each user/feature combination.
• If you bill projects for software usage you can now use EasyAdmin to get the billing report.

For more information please contact:

Regev Doron, CMO
reggev@openlm.com
Office 972-4-6308085
Mobile 972-52-6811094

Global Maps is a Carbon Neutral Company - we print ONLY when we have to

How to use OpenLM for creating billing reports?

OpenLM is a license statistics application for FLEXnet (FLEXlm) and also a replacement for Macrovision SAMsuite and SAMreport. The software allow you to produce monthly usage reports and use them in order to create your bills for users and projects.

This article will demonstrate EasyAdmin capability for creating billing reports using Simens NX UGS license statistics.

In order to produce the report open OpenLM EasyAdmin which is the system interface for FLEXnet reports. Go to the user activity TAB to see the following interface:

Fill in the range you would like the report to cover and click view. Then Export the data by clicking "Download CSV".

You can open the CSV file with your spreadsheet software or any other software in order to calculate the usage time. Each exported row looks as follow:

The date/time format is UNIX time stamp (milliseconds from 1970). We would like to calculate the work time in minutes so we will add a new column with this formula:

= (F1-E1)/60000

The value is the number of minutes that the user have used the product.

The next release of OpenLM will feature a ready made billing report with totals for each user.

If you want to display the start and end date in a date format you can use this formula (translate UNIX time stamp to Excel Date):

= E1 / 86400 + 25569

Then change the cell format to the desired date/time format (for example this custom format: mm/dd/yyyy h:mm).

The OpenLM system can connect with the Microsoft Active Directory and use information which is stored there, to offer wide range of additional capabilities as a result of it.

This article will explain how to control which servers an end user will be able see, when querying for license status information.

To begin with, we would like to demonstrate an "Out of the box" feature which is available for users once the configuration of OpenLM Server to connect with AD (Active Directory) is accomplished. The following picture is demonstrating how users can query the system to find all the information they need, about licenses in use by other users in the network.

Your first step is to set the connection between the OpenLM server and your organization Active Directory. The user name used to connect to AD must have permission level which will allow it to read users details.

Fill in your domain name user and password, and click the check button. The connection to AD will only work after OpenLM was successfully connected to the active directory.

Your second step is to determine which license servers the user should see when querying "License Information Status". This is an important tool for use when you operate multiple license servers but would like to hide available licenses, on license servers which are not permitted to specific users. It is necessary to build a dedicated tree in the AD with specific servers as branches inside (see picture). By creating the tree you will be able to select branches/servers that specific users are allowed to see and borrow licenses from. If a user is not listed (connected with) a server he will be able to see all the servers.

Define the following OpenLM organizational unit tree:

Under "allow_query_server" OU, add security groups in the following format: port_number@license_server_name. Add users (or groups) to the group with the server name on which you wish to grant query permissions.

For example, let us assume we have one license server (licserv1) serving two type of licenses on two ports, Matlab from Mathsoft on port 27003 and SolidWorks licenses on port 27006. Some of your users need access to the Matlab licenses and the other, to the SolidWorks licenses.
We will build two security groups under the OpenLM tree:
27003@licserv1
27006@licserv1

Once users are divided between the proper security groups, they will be limited to see and borrow licenses from those servers only. Users which will not be listed as part of any branch/server on the tree, will be able to query and borrow any license from any of the servers in your network.

The new 1.5.0 version of OpenLM offers many new features

New features for any FLEXlm managed software (Available in OpenLM Utilizer)

Ability to work with unlimited FLEXlm servers - including servers in different timezones.

Support for FLEXlm redundant server configuration (three or five FLEXlm that work together).

Significant performance improvements in OpenLM EasyAdmin.

Ability to connect OpenLM server to Active Directory, in order to display additional user's information.
Ability to hide the OpemLM Agent from the users by the systems administrator.
Actual product name in the "license usage information" and EasyAdmin, instead of the name that FLEXlm has given the software.
Ability to "Filter" licenses list in the EasyAdmin - very useful for large organizations with considerable amount of licenses.
Option to avoid license information refresh at each query - important for big organizations with numerous amount of licenses.
Option to limit user access, and deny the ability to query license status information for specific servers.
OpenLM Agent displays the software version of the Agent and OpenLM Server.
OpenLM Server version is displayed in the Configuration Form title bar.

New "user activity" report allow you to query activity for each user/feature combination.

If you bill projects for software usage you can now use EasyAdmin to get the billing report.

New features dedicated to OpenLM for ESRI ArcGIS

OpenLM Agent can now recognize network file system permissions, and can avoid from trying to save RO documents.
A new tool is prompting the user to release unused extensions.
Ability to exclude folders, so documents in excluded folders will not be saved by OpenLM.
Ability to control IO and CPU usage levels, which are used to determine if software is active or none active.

OpenLM 1.5.0 support FLEXnet redundant server configuration

What is a redundant server configuration with FLEXnet?

A redundant server is used in order to insure the availability of floating licenses, in the event of a system crash. Redundant server configuration is created with a minimum of three servers. For as long as at least two servers are working, licenses will remain available to users. If only one server functions, licenses will not be available since a "Quorum" of at least two is required.

How do I set a redundant server configuration?

You need to ask your software vendor to supply you three license files with the same features, one for each machine.

Is there an alternative configuration?

Yes, you can split up your licenses between multiple independent servers. In this case the software will use licenses from any available license server. The disadvantage of this configuration is that your efficiency will decrease. Also, if one server goes down, the total amount of licenses available will decrease according to the number of licenses on that server.

How can I configure OpenLM server to work with redundant server configuration?

Just add all the three redundant servers to OpenLM monitoring list, by using the OpenLM server configuration form. OpenLM will monitor all three servers and continue to work even if one of the servers will crash. OpenLM server will know to collect your license statistics as if you operated a single license server.

OpenLM for FLEXlm System configuration

OpenLM - A modular system

OpenLM is a very flexible and modular system which offers system managers the ability to deploy it easily in different environments. This article will discuss some possible configuration options, but it's main focus is the ability of OpenLM to work with FLEXlm license manager that could be running on servers with different operating systems (UNIX, Windows).

OpenLM System is composed of three parts:

• OpenLM Server.
• OpenLM Agent.
• OpenLM EasyAdmin.

OpenLM Server is the server component and the heart of the system. The OpenLM Server corps the data from the FLEXlm license server, stores the information in the database, communicates with OpenLM Agents and manage the whole operation of the system. It is possible to install OpenLM Server on almost any Microsoft Windows based server (Check our OpenLM Support Matrix ). OpenLM Server is implemented as a Windows service called OpenLM_Server.exe and it is automatically created by OpenLM Server installation program.

OpenLM Agent is the the component which is distributed to the end users workstations and it is responsible mostly for the communication with the end user. OpenLM Agent allow users to easily interact with the floating licenses manager, check available licenses and even see which user checked out the license. OpenLM Agent is a notification area program called OpenLM_Agent.exe and it should be distributed automatically to any workstation that uses FLEXlm licensed software (You can use any software distribution system for that purpose).

OpenLM EasyAdmin is the interface of OpenLM for FLEXlm reporting, statistics and charting. It can run on any web browser - from any workstation on the network. OpenLM EasyAdmin is implemented as an Adobe Flash component and is used for providing a rich user interface.

FLEXlm was originally developed as a joint venture of GLOBEtrotter Software and Highland Software in 1988. Highland's rights to the FLEXlm product were acquired by GLOBEtrotter in 1994; Highland continued as a reseller of 3rd party software. GLOBEtrotter was then acquired by Macrovision in 2000; Macrovision subsequently renamed FLEXlm to FLEXnet. When FLEXlm was developed, it only operated on UNIX platforms that has a HOSTID that was unique to each UNIX box. Several years later FLEXlm was ported to work on windows platforms with a hardware dongle that supplies the needed unique key.

OpenLM - A single server installation

At this point in time, many organizations still use the UNIX server as the FLEXlm server, however many organizations moved their floating license servers to Microsoft Windows servers. When the floating license server is a windows server, many system managers choose to install OpenLM server component on the FLEXlm server itself. This configuration is described in the following drawing:

As can be seen in the drawing, both the FLEXlm server and OpenLM server are installed on the same machine.

The drawing is demonstrating the following components:
OpenLM Agent communicates with the OpenLM Server using port 7012 (Can be easily configured to another port).
The licensed software (ESRI ArcGIS, Autocad, Solidworks etc.) connects to the FLEXlm server using port 27000 by default.
EasyAdmin can be accessed from any workstation on the network by your web browser (port 80). After OpenLM EasyAdmin is finished to load up, it will be using port 7014 to communicate with the OpenLM Server (UI Port).


OpenLM - Multiple servers configuration

When FLEXlm is running on a UNIX server, the system manager need to use a multiple server configuration of OpenLM system. In many cases, system administrators prefer multiple server configuration even when they use Microsoft Windows as a FLEXlm server. It is possible to install OpenLM Server on any Windows server on the network and monitor one or more FLEXlm servers, that operates on Windows or UNIX servers. The following system diagram describes a system with multiple servers: FLEXlm server, OpenLM Server and HTTP server.

If your organization is using any of the OpenLM's full versions, you can configure OpenLM server to monitor multiple FLEXlm servers which can run on a UNIX or a Windows servers.

Beginning with version 1.5 of OpenLM each component of OpenLM system (Server, Agent) can be on a different timezone: FLEXlm server, OpenLM Server or OpenLM Agent. All the functionality of OpenLM will work across timezones: release idle licenses, remove orphaned licenses, FLEXlm reporting, FLEXlm statistics, FLEXlm charting, query licenses status and availability by end users, etc.

Summery

OpenLM system is designed as a modular system in order to fit the particular needs of any organization.
Each component of OpenLM could be installed on a different server, as well as on a different time zone.
Every port of every component of the OpenLM system can be easily configured, to allow system managers maximum flexibility.
A floating license manager (FLEXlm) that runs on UNIX server, is supported by OpenLM with the multiple servers configuration, as displayed in the second diagram.

Oren Gabay
CTO
OpenLM
http://www.openlm.com

OpenLM Version 1.4.1 Announcement

OpenLM version 1.4.1 is a maintenance release for the latest release (1.4.0) of OpenLM.

The new maintenance version enhances the existing version and adds many new and very important functions.

Highlights

• As of this version, the communication between OpenLM agents and the OpenLM Server is based on HTTP protocol. It enables the communication over wide networks and firewalls.

• The new version includes support for Microsoft Terminal Services.

• Daily, weekly and monthly reports can now be generated.

• The new version also includes a long awaited solution: preventing the closing of software during long processing jobs.

Important to know: Macrovision announced recently that it is retiring SAMreport and SAMsuite. For anyone searching for these types of applications and who use FLEXlm licensed software, OpenLM can now provide a very good solution.

OpenLM is offered in three flavors:

1. OpenLM For ESRI ArcGIS - The full version with a specific extension for ESRI ArcGIS Desktop products.
2. OpenLM FLEXlm Utilizer - The full version that fits any organization using FLEXlm licensed software. The software is a good replacement for Macrovision SAMreportSAMsuite and it is extremely cost effective in comparison to the Macrovision product. Please read more on the subject of OpenLM Utilizer for FLEXlm .
3. OpenLM Light - The free version of OpenLM. It can be freely downloaded and used by any organization that use FLEXlm licensing. It offers the basic reporting features, plus end-user tools to query license availability over the license pool. It is a simple but great replacement for the Macrovision SAMreport or SAMsuite at no cost, except your time for the 5 minutes it will take you to get it fired up!

OpenLM Utilizer Announcement

OpenLM Utilizer for FLEXlm is a cost effective solution for replacing SAMsuite and SAMreport

Macrovision retired SAMreport and OpenLM decided to offer an affordable solution. The OpenLM software is available in three options:
OpenLM Light - Free Version - This is a great solution for organizations who are under budget constraint. It is limited to a single FLEXlm server and with a limited set of reports. However it is offering an end user agent, allowing for license availability and active users query.

OpenLM Utilizer for FLEXlm - The Utilizer is an OpenLM solution with great reporting and management tools for FLEXlm. It will save you time and money by minimizing administration time, and help you to provide better license availability for your users. A single seat of the software can manage any number of FLEXlm license servers, for a $500 annual fee. The OpenLM Utilizer includes all the features of the full OpenLM software except for the ability to automatically release idle licenses.

OpenLM for ESRI ArcGIS - The OpenLM Full version is designed to assist system managers and end users alike, in achieving optimum use of time and performance of software managed by Macrovision FLEXlm. The latest version is targeted to enhance the use of ESRI ArcGIS software and it includes reports and automatic release of idle licenses. The software pricing is based on the number of licenses and extensions that the system service.

Thoma Cressey Bravo to Acquire Macrovision's Software Business

Macrovision will sell a software unit that include FLEXnet (FLEXlm) - the floating license manager.

Read article: http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20080214005483&newsLang=en

Serving OpenLM EasyAdmin using IIS 7

OpenLM is an application dedicated to the management of Macrovision FLEXnet (Globetrotter FLEXlm). The EasyAdmin is OpenLM's reporting component and it is Http based application. The EasyAdmin can be viewed with Internet browser from any station in the network.

By default, EasyAdmin is installed together with OpenLM Server and it is served by a dedicated HTTP server, which is also distributed with OpenLM Server install pack. After your organization decided to use OpenLM, we recommend to serve OpenLM EasyAdmin application by your organizational HTTP server in order to allow access to FLEXlm reports from any site.

This short guide outlines the steps required in order to serve your OpenLM EasyAdmin by using your IIS 7 HTTP server (the steps in IIS 6 are similar). In this guide we assume that the IIS server is located on the same server as OpenLM. If your Http Server is located on different machine, please copy C:\Program Files\GlobalMaps\OpenLMServer\EasyAdmin to that machine

The OpenLM EasyAdmin will be installed under the default web site, and will be accessed by using the following URL: http:///EasyAdmin

Open the IIS Manager (Control Panel->Administrative Tools)

Right click the "Default Web Site" and add "Virtual Directory"

The IIS Virtual Directory wizard will open up:

Click Next and type the preferred alias name

Click next and browse to the EasyAdmin folder

Click Next and Accept the default settings

Click next to get the final wizard screen

Close the wizard and open your web browser on the EasyAdmin address:

OpenLM is now published under the default web site of your organizational server. Every system administrator or permitted user can now access FLEXlm reports, release orphaned licenses, draw usage charts, watch FLEXlm statistics, list active FLEXlm users and query the usage patterns of any specific user.


OpenLM EasyAdmin is included in every version of the OpenLM software system. The OpenLM light version include the EasyAdmin application as well, however it comes with less reporting options compared with the full OpenLM versions: OpenLM Utilizer for FLEXlm and OpenLM for ESRI ArcGIS. When using OpenLM with all it's unique features, you should save a lot of money by highly improving the use of your expensive FLEXlm licenses.