BGSU currently uses a software product called KeyServer, a network license server from Sassafras Software. KeyServer ensures that the number of licensed copies of software packages in a central pool that are being used anywhere over the campus network is not exceeded. There is no noticeable response-time difference between a "keyed" application and a "non-keyed" application, as each software package still resides on the computer's hard drive. The benefit of KeyServer is that a software license is not tied to a specific machine. Once you quit the application, the license is released back to the central pool and can then be assigned to someone else.

Anyone in a campus office or computer lab can use KeyServer at no cost. Dozens of popular software titles are available, and Information Technology Services is committed to having an adequate number of each to meet demand. ITS monitors KeyServer usage weekly.

ITS asks departments to contribute any departmentally-owned software licenses to the license pool in exchange for access to the licenses ITS holds.

To obtain additional information about the University Keyserver, see the  KeyServer Frequently Asked Questions page. It answers many common questions about the university KeyServer and addresses several concerns brought up by the BGSU community.

To request a connection to KeyServer for your university-owned desktop computer or report any problems with KeyServer, contact the Technology Support Center in person at 110 Hayes Hall, by phone at 419-372-0999, or by email using their online form.