How to open a port in Windows Defender Firewall and assign the port in OLI Network License Server.
Overview
OLI Network License Server does not always require a specified port, but it often helps when troubleshooting access to the software as a network user. This guide is intended for the administrator(s) of the OLI Network License Server; administrator privileges are required. The steps in the last section can be completed by the end user.
This process consists of three steps overall:
- Opening a port
- Assigning the port in OLI Network License Server
- Applying the port in the desktop software
Opening a Port
In the Start Menu on the server, search for and open Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security.
Go to the "Inbound Rules" section and click "New Rule..."
Rule Type - Select the "Port" radio button and click "Next >"
Specify Port - Select "TCP" and enter a specific port number. In our example, we are using port 25000, but this is arbitrary. You can choose any unoccupied port.
Allow Connection - Select the "Allow the connection" radio button and click "Next >"
Domain Selection - For security purposes, we recommend checking "Domain" only. This restricts access to computers within your organization's domain. Then click "Next >"
Name the Rule - Assign a name to the rule and click "Finish."
Assigning the Port Number in OLI Network License Server
Now, search for and open the OLI Network License Server application.
"Stop" the server if it is currently running.
Then, go to the "Network Settings" tab and click "Add."
Select "ncacn_ip_tcp" from the Protocol dropdown box.
Enter the port number that you just opened in Windows Defender Firewall.
Click OK, close the Network License Server application, and reopen it. This time, click the "Start" button. If the server starts successfully, you can now close the application and proceed to the next section.
Applying the Port Number to OLI Desktop Software
This example includes screenshots of OLI Studio, however the same process applies to OLI Flowsheet: ESP.
In the Security Error window, click on "Security Options"
In the Network License section, enter the name of the server and the recently opened port (25000 in this example) and click "OK."
The software will prompt you to close and reopen.
At this point, you should be able to successfully use the software.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please submit a ticket through the OLI Support Center.