Installed software licenses pertain to the rights and restrictions associated with using software on various devices. Here are definitions and examples of installed software licenses, including by device, per seat, and network licenses:

By Device License: A by-device license allows the installation and use of software on a specific device or hardware unit. The license typically binds the software’s usage to that particular device and doesn’t grant permission for use on other devices.
Example: Windows OEM License – When you purchase a new computer, it often comes with a pre-installed Windows operating system. The OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) license ties the Windows usage to that particular device.

Per Seat License: Per seat licenses provide permission to install and use the software on a specific number of individual devices or seats. Each seat requires its own license, and the software can be used concurrently on as many devices as there are purchased licenses.
Example: Microsoft Office 2019 Standard – If an organization buys 50 per seat licenses of Microsoft Office 2019 Standard, they can install and use the software on 50 individual devices.

Network License (Concurrent License): A network license, also called a concurrent license, allows a certain number of users or devices to access and use the software simultaneously within a networked environment. The total active users/devices cannot surpass the licensed number at any given time.
Example: Autodesk AutoCAD Network License – Organizations can purchase network licenses for Autodesk AutoCAD, enabling a specific number of users to access and use the software concurrently over the network.

Site License: A site license grants the right to install and use the software across all devices or users within a particular physical location, such as a school campus or a corporate office. It often provides unlimited access to the software within that location.
Example: Adobe Creative Cloud Enterprise Site License – Educational institutions or large enterprises can acquire a site license for Adobe Creative Cloud, allowing unrestricted access to the creative suite within the designated location

Enterprise License: Enterprise licenses cater to large organizations and offer flexibility for deploying software across multiple devices and locations. These licenses may include features like volume discounts and centralized management tools.
Example: IBM SPSS Enterprise License – IBM offers enterprise-level licenses for their SPSS statistical software, which includes advanced capabilities and options for managing software deployments.

Subscription License: Subscription licenses provide access to the software for a specific duration, often on a recurring payment basis. Users can use the software during the subscription period, and access might be revoked if the subscription lapses.
Example: Adobe Acrobat DC Subscription – Adobe offers subscription-based licenses for their Acrobat DC software, granting access to PDF tools on a monthly or annual subscription basis.

Floating License: A floating license permits a certain number of users or devices to share a limited number of software licenses. When a user utilizes the software, it consumes one license; when they finish, the license becomes available for another user.
Example: MathWorks MATLAB Floating License – MATLAB provides floating licenses for concurrent usage within an organization. As users access MATLAB, licenses are dynamically assigned and released.

These diverse types of installed software licenses accommodate different user needs and business requirements, ensuring proper software usage in line with legal agreements and practical deployment scenarios.

There are several reasons why relying exclusively on licensed software for all PCs within an organization might not be the most efficient or effective approach:

1. Cost: Licensed software can be expensive, especially for large organizations with many computers. Purchasing licenses for every PC can strain the budget, especially if there are alternative solutions available.
2. Flexibility: Licensed software often comes with restrictions on how many devices it can be installed on or how it can be used. This lack of flexibility can be problematic for organizations that need to adapt quickly to changing technology needs or scale up their operations.
3. Maintenance and Updates: Managing licenses for numerous PCs can be administratively burdensome. Additionally, ensuring that all software is properly updated and maintained can be challenging, especially if there are different versions or licenses spread across the organization.
4. Vendor Lock-In: Relying solely on licensed software from a single vendor can lead to vendor lock-in, where the organization becomes dependent on that vendor for all its software needs. This can limit flexibility and hinder innovation.
5. Open Source and Free Alternatives: In many cases, there are open-source or free alternatives to licensed software that offer similar functionality. Using these alternatives can significantly reduce costs without sacrificing quality.
6. Piracy Risk: Depending on the region and the nature of the organization, there might be a temptation to use pirated software to save costs. This exposes the organization to legal risks and potential security vulnerabilities associated with unverified software sources.
7. Subscription Model: Many software providers are moving towards a subscription-based model rather than perpetual licensing. This can result in ongoing costs that may not be sustainable for all organizations, especially smaller ones.
8. Diverse Needs: Different departments or teams within an organization may have unique software requirements. Relying solely on licensed software may not accommodate these diverse needs effectively.
9. Cloud-Based Solutions: With the rise of cloud computing, many organizations are transitioning to cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) solutions, which often have subscription-based pricing models. In this case, relying solely on licensed software may not align with the organization’s broader IT strategy.

Overall, while licensed software certainly has its advantages, organizations should carefully consider their specific needs, budget constraints, and long-term goals when deciding whether to exclusively use licensed software on all PCs.

For more information about software licenses you can check out these links

https://www.ibm.com/docs/en/developer-for-zos/14.0?topic=tasks-managing-licenses

https://workingmouse.com.au/innovation/software-licensing-and-cloud-service-models/