Software Glossary

Explore key software terms, licensing concepts, and industry definitions to make more informed purchasing decisions.

C

1 term

CAL (Client Access License)

A Client Access License (CAL) is a license that gives a user or device the right to access a server running Microsoft server software like Windows Server or SQL Server.

Licensing

D

1 term

Digital Download

A digital download is a method of software delivery where the product is downloaded over the internet rather than shipped on physical media like a DVD or USB drive.

Delivery

E

1 term

End User License Agreement (EULA)

A EULA is a legal contract between the software publisher and the end user that defines how the software may be used, including restrictions and liability limitations.

Legal

M

1 term

Multi-User License

A multi-user license allows a single purchased license to be installed and used on multiple devices or by multiple users, typically within the same organization.

Licensing

O

1 term

OEM License

An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) license is a software license that comes pre-installed on a new computer and is permanently tied to that specific hardware.

Licensing

P

2 terms

Perpetual License

A perpetual license is a one-time purchase that grants the right to use a specific version of software indefinitely, without any recurring fees.

Licensing

Product Key

A product key is a unique 25-character alphanumeric code used to activate and verify a legitimate copy of software such as Windows or Microsoft Office.

Licensing

S

3 terms

SaaS (Software as a Service)

SaaS is a cloud-based software delivery model where applications are hosted by the provider and accessed by users over the internet via a web browser.

Models

Software Activation

Software activation is the process of verifying a product key with the manufacturer's server to confirm that the software copy is genuine and properly licensed.

Technical

Subscription License

A subscription license grants access to software for a recurring fee (monthly or annually), with access ending when the subscription is canceled.

Licensing

U

1 term

Upgrade License

An upgrade license allows users of a previous version of software to purchase the newer version at a reduced price, rather than paying full retail.

Licensing

V

1 term

Volume Licensing

Volume licensing is a software licensing model designed for organizations that need to purchase multiple licenses at discounted bulk pricing.

Licensing