I have a multi-user software solution (containing different applications, i.e. EXEs) that should allow only a limited number of concurrent users. It's designed to run in an intranet. I dont have a really good, satisfactory solution to the problem of counting the client licenses yet. The key requirements are:

• Multiple instances (starts) of the same application (= process) should count as only one client licence
• Starting different applications of the software solution should also count as only one (the same) client licence
• Application crash should not lead to orphaned used licences
• The above should work also for Terminal Server environments (all clients same IP, but different install folders)

I'm looking for estabilished patterns, solutions, tips for managing used client licenses. Specific hints for the above sitaution are also welcome.