Rhino Licensing is an open source licensing framework for the .NET platform. It provides functionality for generating, signing, distributing, and validating software licenses within custom-built applications. The framework allows developers to embed licensing mechanisms directly into their software. Licenses are typically generated using cryptographic techniques and can include structured information such as expiration dates, customer details, and feature flags. Applications using Rhino Licensing validate licenses at runtime to determine whether specific features should be enabled or restricted. The library is intended for integration into commercial or proprietary software products that require basic license enforcement without relying on external licensing services. Rhino Licensing focuses on programmatic control of licensing logic and operates as a developer library rather than a standalone license server.

Key Features

License Generation Creates structured license files for distribution.

• Generate licenses programmatically
• Include customer-specific information
• Define expiration dates
• Add feature flags and constraints

Cryptographic Signing Ensures license authenticity and integrity.

• Use asymmetric cryptography
• Prevent license tampering
• Validate digital signatures
• Protect against unauthorized modification

Runtime License Validation Verifies license conditions within applications.

• Check expiration status
• Validate feature permissions
• Confirm license authenticity
• Control application behavior based on license data

Feature Control Supports modular feature enablement.

• Enable or disable application modules
• Restrict advanced capabilities
• Implement tiered product offerings
• Control usage through license attributes

Embedded Integration Designed to be included directly in .NET projects.

• No external license server required
• Works within application runtime
• Fully programmatic configuration
• Suitable for desktop or server software

Benefits

Application-Level License Enforcement Provides internal control over software usage.

• Integrate directly into codebase
• Enforce business rules at runtime
• Reduce dependency on third-party services

Data Integrity and Security Protects license information from manipulation.

• Digital signature validation
• Controlled license generation process
• Secure verification mechanism

Flexible Licensing Models Supports different commercial approaches.

• Time-limited licenses
• Feature-based editions
• Customer-specific licenses
• Custom license attributes

Developer Control Offers full access to licensing logic.

• Custom validation workflows
• Integration with existing systems
• Adaptable to unique business models

Open Source Transparency Allows inspection of implementation details.

• Access to source code
• Community-driven usage
• Customizable for project requirements