Runtime License Enforcement with the Replicated Platform

Enforcing runtime license terms for on-prem software distribution is a complex challenge due to the disconnected nature of customer environments, but Replicated offers solutions by allowing companies to implement these restrictions themselves. While Replicated ensures that software cannot be accessed or distributed without a valid license at the distribution stage, runtime enforcement varies according to business needs. Companies can choose to immediately cut off access when a license expires, simply warn the customer, or employ other strategies. Chuck D'Antonio from Replicated demonstrated a method using an init container in Kubernetes, which checks the validity of a software license and prevents a pod from starting if the license is invalid. His application, SlackerNews, exemplifies this approach, and the technique is shared on GitHub for others to explore. Replicated invites further engagement and provides resources for vendors to better manage software distribution in self-hosted environments.