Importance

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Abstract

A method and system for managing utilization of licensed program within a distributed data processing system having a number of local systems which minimizes the amount of network communication traffic required for such management. Each permitted use of a licensed program by a distributed data processing system is indicated by a use token which may be transferred to selected systems throughout the distributed data processing system. These use tokens are then periodically redistributed throughout the distributed data processing system in response to a requested usage by a particular system within the distributed data processing system. A use token transferred to a particular system is then maintained at that system upon completion of the usage until such time as a request for usage of the licensed program requires transfer of the use token to another system. In this manner the use tokens are effectively distributed throughout the distributed data processing system such that those systems most likely to request usage of the licensed program will maintain possession of the use tokens, minimizing network communication traffic.

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First Claim