Siemens NX License Types: Node Locked, Floating, and Named User – Which One Should You Choose?

When implementing Siemens NX, one of the key factors organizations need to consider is the licensing model. Choosing the right license type not only affects software costs but also determines how flexibly engineers can access and use the system.

Currently, Siemens NX offers three main licensing models:

1. Node Locked License
2. Floating License
3. Named User License

Each license type is designed to support different usage scenarios and organizational needs.

Node Locked License – Fixed to a Single Device

A Node Locked License is tied to a specific computer or workstation. The software can only run on the machine where the license is activated.

Key Characteristics

• License assigned to a single device
• Software can only be used on the licensed machine
• Cannot be shared across multiple computers

Licensing Model

• Previously, Siemens offered perpetual licenses, but starting from 2026, Siemens has transitioned fully to subscription-based licensing.

Advantages

• Lower cost compared to Floating licenses
• Compatible with all NX versions, both old and new
• Simple deployment without license server

Limitations

• Limited flexibility because it is bound to one machine
• Some NX CAD or NX CAM modules are only available with Floating licenses

Best Suited For

• Individual engineers working on a dedicated workstation
• Small companies with limited NX users

Floating License – Shared Through a License Server

A Floating License is managed through a central license server, allowing multiple users to access NX from different machines. However, the number of simultaneous users cannot exceed the number of purchased licenses.

Key Characteristics

• License hosted on a license server
• Users can access NX from multiple machines
• Licenses are dynamically allocated when users start the software

Licensing Model

• Floating licenses are now mainly available through annual subscription plans.

Advantages

• Flexible access across multiple computers
• Optimizes license usage within engineering teams
• Compatible with all NX versions

Limitations

• Higher licensing cost compared to Node Locked
• Requires setup and management of a license server

Best Suited For

• Engineering teams with multiple NX users
• Organizations where users do not use the software simultaneously

Named User License – License Assigned to a User Account

The Named User License is a modern licensing model primarily used with NX X SaaS solutions.

Instead of being tied to a machine or server, the license is assigned to a specific user account (email and password).

Key Characteristics

• License assigned to a specific user
• Users can log in from multiple devices
• Internet connection required for license authentication

Advantages

• High flexibility for users working across multiple devices
• No license server required
• Lower subscription cost compared to traditional license types

Limitations

• Supported only for NX versions from NX2412 (December 2024) onward
• License reassignment requires a 30-day waiting period
• Offline usage limited to 24 hours before re-login is required

Best Suited For

• Engineers who need to work on both desktop and laptop devices
• Remote workers or engineers who travel frequently

Quick Comparison of Siemens NX License Types

How to Choose the Right NX License for Your Business

Selecting the right license depends on how your organization uses Siemens NX.

Node Locked License

• Best for small teams or individual users working on a fixed workstation.

Floating License

• Ideal for engineering departments where multiple users share NX licenses but do not need simultaneous access.

Named User License

• Best suited for flexible work environments, remote engineers, and organizations adopting cloud-based workflows.

Conclusion

Siemens NX provides multiple licensing models to support different engineering workflows and business requirements. Choosing the right license type helps organizations:

• Optimize software investment
• Improve license utilization
• Support scalable engineering operations

By evaluating the number of users, working patterns, and IT infrastructure, companies can select the most suitable Siemens NX licensing model for their digital engineering strategy.