What It Does
Floating License Server manages dynamic license allocation for aescripts products that support floating (FLT) and render-only (REN) licenses. Instead of locking licenses to specific machines, the server assigns them on demand to any workstation on your local network. When a user finishes work, the license returns to the pool for the next person. This works well for studios where more people work with plugins than active seats at any given time.
This is a command-line application. If you’re not comfortable editing config files and running terminal commands, you probably don’t need this.
Key Features
Cross-platform deployment. Runs on Linux, Windows, and macOS. Works on physical machines, virtual machines, and alongside other license servers like RLM. Configuration happens through a single .ini file.
Client flexibility. Machines can connect using either a .plist configuration file or an environment variable. A command-line tool generates the .plist automatically. Licenses can be requested from client machines or released directly on the server.
Failover backup server. The license includes a backup server instance. If the primary server goes down, clients automatically connect to the backup without manual intervention.
Hero list. Designate specific machines (like render nodes) that always get priority. If all licenses are in use when a hero machine requests one, the server revokes the oldest non-hero lease without warning and reassigns it.
Blacklist and whitelist support. Block specific machines from ever receiving licenses, or restrict licenses to only approved machines.
License aggregation. Combine multiple license codes for the same product. For example, add one single license and three floating licenses to create a pool of four.
Configurable logging. Adjust verbosity levels for troubleshooting. Logs can append on restart or start fresh each time.
Products released after November 2021 require server version 4.x or higher. Not all aescripts products support floating licenses, check the product’s license type dropdown before purchasing.
Who It’s For
This server is built for studios and teams managing multiple licenses across a networked environment. If you’re a freelancer with one machine, you don’t need it. If you’re managing render farms, multiple edit bays, or workstations where different artists use the same plugins at different times, this solves the logistics.
Remote workers can use it via VPN. The server requires all machines to be on the same local network.
Pricing
Standard price is $99.99 (one-time purchase, perpetual license). The server is free when purchased simultaneously with 5 or more floating licenses for aescripts products. The discount applies automatically in cart. Limit of one free server per customer. Previously purchased licenses, purchases through resellers, and non-floating license types don’t qualify for the discount.
A 7-day trial mode exists for testing with one license code (leave the registration code field blank in the config file).