Method and system for subscription-based, entitlement-driven license key generation and distribution for digital goods

US7831515B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Intraware, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Paul Martinelli · Berkeley, US
• Tobid Pieper · Concord, US
• Richard Northing · Alamo, US
• Ariane Habets · Pleasant Hill, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 24, 2005
• Grant date: Nov 9, 2010
• Expiry date: Jun 29, 2028

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G06Q30/06
• WIPO field: IT methods for management
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

A method and system for subscription-based, entitlement-driven license key generation and distribution for digital goods allows digital goods vendors to manage rights of customers having maintenance contracts or subscriptions. Rights management includes the ability of the vendor to specify upgraded license rules and automatically update entitlements for all customers having current contracts and/or subscriptions, as specified by the upgraded license rules. Upgrades and accompanying license keys are proactively offered to customers without requiring additional sales transactions.