Summary

Switching between a wired Ethernet (LAN) connection and a Wi-Fi connection can affect GibbsCAM Network License (NLO) operation, depending on whether the computer is acting as the license server or a client workstation.

This article explains the expected behavior for both scenarios and provides recommendations for minimizing interruptions.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Overview

Network License (NLO) behavior differs depending on the role of the computer:

  • License Server – Hosts the GibbsCAM licenses for all users.

  • Client Workstation – Connects to the license server to obtain a license.

Switching between network adapters can affect licensing differently in each case.

Scenario 1: License Server Switching Between LAN and Wi-Fi

Keyless License Servers

If your GibbsCAM Network License Server uses a keyless (software-locked) license, switching from a wired network connection to Wi-Fi (or vice versa) may change the server's hardware identity.

Because the license is tied to the server's hardware configuration, changing the active network adapter can prevent the license from validating correctly.

Symptoms

You may experience:

  • The license server fails to start

  • Licenses are no longer available to clients

  • License validation errors after changing network connections

Recommendation

For servers that need the flexibility to switch between wired and wireless networking, CAMCO recommends using a USB hardware key for the Network License Server.

When a hardware key is used, the license is locked to the USB key rather than the server's hardware configuration, allowing the server to move between network adapters without requiring license reactivation.

Scenario 2: Client Workstation Switching Between LAN and Wi-Fi

Client workstations may also experience interruptions when changing network adapters while GibbsCAM is running.

When switching between Ethernet and Wi-Fi:

  • The workstation receives a new network connection.

  • The IP address and network adapter change.

  • The existing connection to the license server is interrupted.

From the license server's perspective, this may appear as though the original client has disconnected.

Symptoms

Users may notice:

  • Loss of communication with the license server

  • Licensing errors

  • GibbsCAM prompting for a license

  • Network license disconnects

Recommendation

Consider using Roaming Licenses if users frequently disconnect from the corporate network while traveling.
See: How to Use Roaming Licenses

Scenario 3: Keyless Standalone License

If your workstation uses a keyless (software-locked) license, switching from a wired network connection to Wi-Fi (or vice versa) may change the server's hardware identity.

Because the license is tied to the computer’s hardware configuration, changing the active network adapter can prevent the license from validating correctly.

Symptoms

You may experience:

  • Licensing errors

  • GibbsCAM prompting for a license

Recommendation

For workstations that need the flexibility to switch between wired and wireless networking, CAMCO recommends using a USB hardware key.

When a hardware key is used, the license is locked to the USB key rather than the computer's hardware configuration, allowing the computer to move between network adapters without requiring license reactivation.

Recommended Procedure

Before changing from Ethernet to Wi-Fi or from Wi-Fi to Ethernet:

  1. Save any open GibbsCAM files.

  2. Close GibbsCAM.

  3. Change the network connection.

  4. Verify the new network connection is active.

  5. Confirm you can reach the license server.

  6. Restart GibbsCAM.

GibbsCAM will establish a new connection to the license server using the active network adapter.

Best Practices

  • Avoid changing network adapters while actively using GibbsCAM.

  • Keep the license server connected to a stable network whenever possible.

  • For mobile users, establish your preferred network connection before launching GibbsCAM.

  • Consider using Roaming Licenses if users frequently disconnect from the corporate network while traveling.

  • For Network License Servers that require hardware changes or network flexibility, consider a USB hardware key license.

Troubleshooting

Problem: Clients Lose Their License After Switching Networks

Cause

The network connection to the license server was interrupted.

Resolution

Close GibbsCAM, reconnect to the desired network, verify connectivity to the license server, and restart GibbsCAM.


Problem: The License Server Stops Working After Switching to Wi-Fi

Cause

A keyless Network License Server may detect a hardware configuration change when the active network adapter changes.

Resolution

Return the server to its original network configuration or contact your GibbsCAM reseller to discuss migrating to a hardware key-based Network License Server.


Problem: Users Cannot Reconnect After Switching Networks

Possible Causes

  • The workstation cannot reach the license server.

  • Firewall or VPN settings are blocking communication.

  • The license server is unavailable.

Resolution

Verify network connectivity to the license server, confirm the correct server name or IP address is configured, and ensure the required RLM ports are accessible.

Expected Result

Users understand how changing between Ethernet and Wi-Fi affects GibbsCAM licensing and can reconnect successfully after changing network connections. License servers remain stable when configured according to recommended best practices.

Related Articles

Keywords

Switch LAN to Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Wireless, Wi-Fi, Network Adapter, Network License, NLO, RLM, License Server, Client Connection, Hardware Key, Keyless License, Network Disconnect, Roaming License