Exploring Dassault Systèmes’ Managed DSLS Licensing System

About Dassault’s Licensing System

Dassault Systèmes offers 3 types of licenses – Floating, Node-locked, and Managed. DSLS which stands for Dassault Systèmes License Server is the proprietary license manager developed by Dassault Systèmes for licensing purposes of their floating and node-locked licenses. 

Before the release of DSLS, Dassault Systèmes relied on other license managers such as FlexLM or IBM LUM. While DSLS was primarily developed as an on-premise license manager, recently Managed DSLS also known as Managed DSLS Licensing Service was released.

Managed DSLS is a cloud-hosted licensing service that removes the need for a dedicated physical machine to act as the licensing server. The license server is managed by Dassault Systèmes and located in the Dassault Systèmes Cloud datacenter.

Whether a workstation is compatible with Managed DSLS or not is checked by the Managed DSLS (Dassault Systemes License Server) Eligibility tool. It performs the following checks: 

Connection to Managed DSLS Service

• Network Performance
• Packet Loss
• Browser Version (optional)

To ensure compatibility, Managed DSLS includes a comprehensive “Eligibility Tool” that performs essential checks on each workstation hosting the client application. These checks cover connection to the Managed DSLS service, network performance, and packet loss. Additionally, users have the option to verify browser compatibility, although this check is not mandatory for basic functionality.

Accessing Managed DSLS is straightforward for authorized users. Client machines authenticated by the customer can remotely access the DSLS through a web interface using login credentials provided by Dassault Systèmes. This web-based approach enables administrators to manage licenses and monitor usage from any location with internet access.

This cloud-based license makes it possible to run the application without connecting to the organization’s network. 

In a nutshell: 

Which application versions are supported? 

Points to Note!

• Licenses must be under maintenance

Customers using Dassault Systèmes Managed DSLS licensing face the challenge of ensuring continuous maintenance of licenses to access updates and technical support. Failure to maintain licenses could lead to disruptions in software usage and potential compliance issues with licensing agreements.

• Support for specific portfolio and release levels

Managing support for specific portfolio and release levels can be challenging for customers using Managed DSLS licensing, as they need to ensure compatibility with their desired software configurations. Upgrades or changes in software versions may require adjustments to licensing arrangements to maintain functionality and integration.

• Internet connection requirements in terms of bandwidth and latency

Customers relying on Managed DSLS licensing must contend with internet connection challenges(Port 443), including sufficient bandwidth (>4 Mb/s) and low latency (<350 ms). In environments with limited internet access or high latency, validating licenses and accessing software resources may become cumbersome, potentially impacting productivity and user experience.

• Dependency on Dassault maintenance windows

Organizations utilizing Managed DSLS licensing must consider dependency on Dassault maintenance windows for updates and maintenance activities. Careful planning is essential to minimize disruptions and ensure continuous operation during maintenance periods while adhering to licensing agreements.

Overall, Dassault Systèmes’ Managed DSLS offers benefits with remote license usage and flexibility but requires careful consideration of its complexity and vendor dependency.