Session-Based Concurrent User Licensing Portal Server
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems face challenges in regulating access to manufacturing/process control network information and resources, particularly in enforcing concurrent user access limits and fairly charging customers for premium resources accessed via portal servers.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for administering session-based concurrent user licensing on a manufacturing/process control information portal, where a single logon persists across multiple resources, with a license manager ensuring that access is granted only when a concurrent user license is available and not exceeded, allowing users to access licensed resources without needing multiple logins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple separate logons are required for each resource access, then access control precision is improved, but user operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the authentication process by introducing a portal server as an intermediary layer between users and multiple protected resources. Users authenticate once at the portal level, and this authentication state is then reused across multiple resource accesses, dividing the complex multi-authentication task into a simple single-authentication operation followed by resource-specific access control
Solution Approach 2:
The portal server acts as an intermediary component that manages user sessions and coordinates authentication across multiple resources. It maintains user identity information and presents it to individual resources, eliminating the need for users to repeatedly authenticate while preserving precise access control through the intermediary's coordination
2Productivity
If concurrent user license limits are enforced, then resource management efficiency is improved, but system accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The license management system dynamically monitors and adjusts the number of active user sessions against defined license limits. When limits are approached, the system dynamically prevents new connections or prompts users to disconnect, providing real-time feedback that guides user behavior while maintaining efficient resource utilization
Solution Approach 2:
The portal server implements feedback mechanisms that inform users about license availability and connection status. This feedback allows users to understand system constraints and adjust their access patterns accordingly, maintaining accessibility within the bounds of licensed capacity
3Ease of operation
If session-based licensing is implemented, then user experience is improved, but license management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The portal server implements self-service session management by automatically tracking user connections, monitoring session duration, and enforcing license limits without requiring manual intervention. The system autonomously manages the complexity of session tracking and license compliance while providing a seamless user experience
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a server that provides session-persistent concurrent licenses for resources accessed by clients. In one embodiment, rather than requiring a license when the server is initially accessed, a license is not requested until a client seeks access to a licensed resource. In one implementation, scripts for Web pages associated with licensed resources include requests for licenses from a license management facility. Certain resources conditionally request a license based upon the origin of the access request: the license request may be bypassed for access requests from “pre-licensed” applications. Session-based licensing allows equitable assessment of compensation to a service provider for use of the services. The server includes many resources, some of which require a license for access while others do not. The services of premium value are the only ones for which customers are expected to obtain/claim a license.