As an IT manager, you recognize that software license management (SLM) is more than just a routine duty—it's a strategic necessity. It's a key aspect of software asset management (SAM) that helps your organization control costs. Without proper management, there's a risk of overspending on licenses or facing substantial penalties for non-compliance. Efficient license management ensures you're only paying for what you actually use.
Efficient software license management also enables you to allocate software resources more effectively. By tracking which licenses are in use, identifying redundant ones, and determining which need upgrading or downsizing, you can eliminate software waste within your organization.
Key Features of License Management Tools
Businesses can enhance their productivity by leveraging the wide range of features provided by software license management solutions.
Here are the key features of license management tools:
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Compliance Monitoring: Whether small or large, businesses must adhere to software license regulations. SLM tools enable companies to generate compliance reports, allowing them to proactively monitor and address potential risks and issues.
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Cost Optimization: SLM tools help businesses optimize software spending by renegotiating contracts based on actual usage and eliminating unused licenses, leading to significant cost reductions.
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Monitoring: These tools provide businesses with the ability to track the deployment and usage of various software licenses within their organization.
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License Inventory Management: SLM tools assist organizations in maintaining detailed records of licenses, including the number of licenses purchased, license types, and expiration dates.
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License Renewal Alerts: Companies operating in the digital space can receive notifications about compliance issues, upcoming license renewals, and expirations, helping them manage software expenditures more effectively.
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Integration Capabilities: Businesses should choose SLM tools that seamlessly integrate with their IT and software management infrastructure, including procurement and inventory management systems.
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Vendor Relationship Management: SLM tools can also aid in fostering strong vendor relationships, which can lead to better discounts and more favorable terms.
1. LynxPDF Editor
LynxPDF Editor is a comprehensive tool designed for enterprises that need advanced PDF management capabilities. It offers optional deployment methods like Intune, GPO, RDS, SCCM, and provides various install packages including msi, exe, pkg, and dmg.
The editor integrates seamlessly with Single Sign-On (SSO) and supports on-premise deployment for specialized business scenarios. With an Admin Console, enterprises can manage licenses, teams, and users effectively.
Pricing
The pricing for LynxPDF Editor is tiered based on the number of users:
- 1 User: USD $89.99 each
- 2-4 Users: USD $76.49 each (Save 15%)
- 5-9 Users: USD $67.49 each (Save 25%)
- 10-29 Users: USD $62.99 each (Save 30%)
- 30-99 Users: USD $58.49 each (Save 35%)
- 100+ Users: USD $49.49 each (Contact for up to 50% OFF)
Key Features
- Comprehensive PDF Management: Edit text and images, organize pages, create and fill forms, and enjoy unlimited eSigning capabilities.
- Robust Security: Protect sensitive information with advanced encryption, customizable access rights, and secure redaction features.
- Flexible Deployment: Supports various deployment methods and integrates with Single Sign-On (SSO) for streamlined user management and enhanced security.
2. Total Network Inventory
Image source: Total Network Inventory
Total Network Inventory (TNI) is a versatile tool designed to manage and audit an organization’s entire IT infrastructure. It gathers detailed data on hardware and software from all connected devices, including those running on Windows, macOS, Linux, FreeBSD, and ESX/ESXi systems.
TNI provides a centralized interface for network scanning, asset tracking, and report generation. Known for its intuitive interface and powerful features, TNI delivers comprehensive insights into network inventory, making it a valuable tool for IT departments seeking efficient management solutions.
Pricing Plans
TNI 6 Standard:
- 25 nodes: $90 ($3.60 per node)
- 350 nodes: $630 ($1.80 per node)
- 2,000 nodes: $1790 ($0.90 per node)
- Unlimited nodes: $2490
TNI 6 Professional:
- 25 nodes: $135 ($5.40 per node)
- 350 nodes: $945 ($2.70 per node)
- 2,000 nodes: $2685 ($1.34 per node)
- Unlimited nodes: $3735
Key Features
- Effortless Remote Scanning: Start your PC audit easily by installing Total Network Inventory 6 on one computer. Define network nodes or IP ranges, set the admin password, and click Start scan. In minutes, you'll have data on all network devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and FreeBSD systems.
- Streamlined Network Audit Database: Store scanned data in a dedicated folder with individual files for each device. Organize computers, attach notes, and inventory numbers, making data transfer, sharing, and archiving simple and efficient.
- Dynamic Reporting and Analysis: Generate detailed reports by selecting computers and choosing the desired audit report. Customize reports with specific objects and fields. Use the instant search feature to navigate extensive data easily, ensuring detailed insights are always available.
3. ManageEngine AssetExplorer
Image source: ManageEngine AssetExplorer
ManageEngine AssetExplorer facilitates comprehensive software license management throughout their lifecycle, from planning to disposal. It serves as a centralized repository where all license contracts are stored and organized, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
AssetExplorer not only tracks licenses but also optimizes their usage by identifying underutilized or unused licenses, enabling efficient resource reallocation and potential cost savings. This tool is essential for maintaining streamlined and compliant software license management within an organization.
Pricing Plans
- 250 IT assets: $955
- 500 IT assets: $1,795
- 1,000 IT assets: $2,995
- 1,500 IT assets: $4,195
- 2,000 IT assets: $4,795
- 3,000 IT assets: $7,195
- 5,000 IT assets: $9,595
- 10,000 IT assets: $11,995
- Additional 1,000 IT assets (only for 10,000 IT pack): $1,195
Key Features
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Automated License Tracking: This powerful tool automates the tracking of software licenses, reducing the risk of non-compliance. It provides real-time insights into the status of licenses, including usage, expiration dates, and renewal reminders.
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Compliance Assurance: ManageEngine Asset Explorer provides you with accurate compliance reports, ensuring that software usage aligns with contractual obligations. It also assists in preparing for software audits, reducing compliance-related stress.
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Software Discovery and Recognition: Asset Explorer's software discovery capabilities allow your team to identify and recognize software across the entire network. It ensures that no software remains hidden, promoting transparency and control over the software landscape.
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Customizable Alerts: You can set up customizable alerts for license expirations, overutilization, or other critical events. This proactive approach helps in timely decision-making and risk mitigation.
4. AssetSonar
Image source: AssetSonar
AssetSonar offers robust software license tracking that ensures compliance, optimizes software expenditure, and prepares your organization for audits. By centralizing software license management, AssetSonar allows you to manage all license agreements and data in one platform.
It helps prevent unnecessary purchases and penalties by maintaining compliance, reduces costs by monitoring license usage, and mitigates audit risks through up-to-date license information. This all-in-one solution streamlines your software asset management, making it efficient and cost-effective.
Pricing Plans
Base Fee: $49.99 per month (Billed Monthly)
- Number of Devices: $0.30 per device
- Number of Registered Software License Seats: Based on usage
- Number of Admins: $49.99 per admin (5 agents per admin)
Key Features
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Comprehensive License Analysis: Easily identify any gaps in your software licenses through detailed reports, ensuring complete coverage.
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Cost Avoidance: Detect unauthorized software on your network to prevent fines and unexpected expenses.
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Timely Notifications: Receive automated alerts for upcoming license renewals, expirations, and payments, keeping you ahead of deadlines.
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Real-Time Updates: Regularly monitor and update your licenses to ensure you always have the most current information.
5. Jira Service Management
Image source: Jira Service Management
Jira Service Management is an IT service management tool that helps teams deliver high-quality services through efficient incident, problem, and change management. It offers a user-friendly interface and robust features, allowing customization to fit specific workflows. Integration with other Atlassian products creates a cohesive IT management ecosystem.
A standout feature is its effective license management capability, providing detailed insights into software usage. This helps organizations optimize licenses, reduce costs, and avoid compliance issues, with reporting features that simplify monitoring and auditing of license usage.
Pricing Plans
Free:
- 3 agents: $0 (free forever)
Standard:
- 25 agents: $434.50 ($17.38 per agent)
- 100 agents: $1,738 ($17.38 per agent)
- 500 agents: $5,110 ($10.22 per agent)
- 2,000 agents: $14,680 ($7.34 per agent)
Premium:
- 25 agents: $1,098.75 ($43.95 per agent)
- 100 agents: $4,395 ($43.95 per agent)
- 500 agents: $13,130 ($26.26 per agent)
- 2,000 agents: $34,140 ($17.07 per agent)
Enterprise:
- Contact sales for custom pricing
Key Features
- Incident Management: Jira Service Management brings together development and IT operations teams to quickly respond to, resolve, and learn from incidents. This collaborative approach ensures efficient incident resolution and continuous improvement.
- Change Management: The tool empowers IT operations teams with detailed contextual information about changes, allowing for better decision-making and minimizing risks. It integrates with software development tools to provide comprehensive insights for managing changes effectively.
- Asset Management: With Jira Service Management, you can efficiently manage inventory by storing assets, tracking ownership, and monitoring lifecycles. This helps in reducing costs and improving asset utilization across the organization.
6. Freshservice
Image source: Freshservice
Freshservice is an IT service management (ITSM) tool from Freshworks, designed to enhance IT operations with a user-friendly interface and features like incident management, change management, and asset management. It streamlines IT issue resolution and automates manual tasks, allowing IT teams to focus on strategic activities. Freshservice integrates well with other business applications, creating a cohesive IT ecosystem.
A key feature of Freshservice is its license management capabilities, providing insights into software usage, tracking renewals, and ensuring compliance, ultimately optimizing software costs and usage.
Pricing Plans
Freshservice:
- Starter: $29/agent/month – Incident management, self-service portal, SLA management.
- Growth: $59/agent/month – Starter features + service catalog, asset management.
- Pro: $115/agent/month – Growth features + problem management, project management.
- Enterprise: $145/agent/month – Pro features + advanced analytics, virtual agent.
Freshdesk:
- Free: $0 (up to 10 agents) – Basic support.
- Growth: $18/agent/month – Customizable ticketing, performance reporting.
- Pro: $59/agent/month – Advanced automation.
- Enterprise: $95/agent/month – Bots, custom objects.
Freshchat
- Free: $0 (up to 10 agents) – Basic messaging.
- Growth: $23/agent/month – Advanced chat capabilities.
- Pro: $59/agent/month – Advanced automation.
- Enterprise: $95/agent/month – Bots, advanced analytics.
Freshcaller
- Free: $0 (+ pay per minute) – Basic call management.
- Growth: $18/agent/month (+ pay per minute) – Advanced call management.
- Pro: $47/agent/month (+ pay per minute) – Advanced call analytics.
- Enterprise: $83/agent/month (+ pay per minute) – Advanced call routing.
Freshsales
- Growth: $11/user/month – Pipeline management.
- Pro: $47/user/month – Advanced CRM capabilities.
- Enterprise: $71/user/month – Customizable CRM.
Freshsales Suite
- Growth: $11/user/month – CRM and marketing automation.
- Pro: $47/user/month – Advanced CRM, AI assistance.
- Enterprise: $71/user/month – Customization, marketing automation.
Freshmarketer
- Free: $0 (up to 100 contacts) – Basic marketing automation.
- Enterprise: $18/user/month (500 contacts) – Advanced marketing automation.
Key Features
- Incident Management: Freshservice offers a streamlined incident management system that allows IT teams to quickly respond to, track, and resolve issues. This feature includes automated ticket routing, prioritization, and real-time notifications, ensuring that incidents are handled efficiently and effectively.
- Asset Management: The asset management feature in Freshservice provides comprehensive tracking of hardware and software assets. It helps in monitoring asset lifecycle, managing inventory, and ensuring compliance, thus optimizing asset utilization and reducing costs.
- Change Management: Freshservice’s change management module facilitates the planning, approval, and implementation of IT changes with minimal risk. It includes customizable workflows, impact analysis, and change calendars, ensuring smooth and controlled changes in the IT environment.
7. Snow License Manager
Image source: Snow License Manager
Snow License Manager provides a comprehensive overview of software usage and entitlements across your network. It continuously scans for installed software, giving you real-time visibility into your software assets. The tool allows you to easily track licenses for various vendors, versions, and editions within a single dashboard.
With an intuitive interface and robust features, Snow License Manager helps IT managers take control of their software assets, optimize costs, and ensure compliance, making it an essential tool for effective software asset management.
Key Features
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Automated Software Inventory: Snow License Manager automates the collection of software inventory data, eliminating the need for manual tracking and ensuring accurate data across all devices.
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License Optimization: The tool identifies underused or unused licenses, allowing you to reallocate resources effectively, reduce costs, and ensure optimal license utilization.
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Compliance Management: Snow License Manager monitors software usage and provides proactive alerts and detailed reports to help you stay compliant with licensing agreements.
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Vendor Relations: Gain insights into vendor contracts, maintenance agreements, and renewal dates to negotiate better terms and avoid unexpected costs.
8. SolarWinds Service Desk
Image source: SolarWinds Service Desk
SolarWinds Service Desk is an IT service management tool designed to streamline IT operations. It allows teams to efficiently handle incidents, service requests, and changes through an intuitive interface and robust automation features. The tool also integrates well with other IT systems, enhancing overall productivity.
A key feature of SolarWinds Service Desk is its license management capabilities, which offer detailed insights into software usage. This helps organizations track and optimize licenses, ensuring compliance and reducing costs by managing allocations and renewals effectively.
Pricing Plans
- Essentials: $39/technician/month – For growing teams, unlimited users.
- Advanced: $79/technician/month – For mature IT organizations, unlimited users.
- Premier: $99/technician/month – For full customizability, unlimited users.
Key Features
- Automated Ticketing: SolarWinds Service Desk offers automated ticketing, allowing IT teams to prioritize and route issues efficiently. This automation improves response times and ensures that incidents are handled based on their urgency and impact.
- Integrated Asset Management: The tool provides comprehensive asset management capabilities, tracking IT and non-IT assets throughout their lifecycle. This integration helps in managing onboarding, assignments, maintenance, and retirement of assets, ensuring optimal use of resources.
- Self-Service Portal: SolarWinds Service Desk includes a self-service portal where employees can access knowledge articles, submit tickets, and check the status of their requests. This feature reduces the workload on IT teams and empowers users to resolve common issues independently.
Efficient software license management is crucial for organizations aiming to enhance productivity, drive growth, and maximize revenues over time.
