License Server: Client cannot return (check in) borrowed license

Description
A user has borrowed a license from the License Server to use offline (e.g., for travel), but later cannot return the license. The “Return” or “Check‑in” function fails, typically because the original server is no longer reachable (VPN is off, hostname changed, or license server was reinstalled). The seat remains locked until the borrow period expires, blocking other users.

Solution

1. Try a normal return with proper connectivity
   • Reconnect the client machine to the corporate network/VPN.
   • Ensure that:
     • DNS resolves the license server hostname correctly.
     • The firewall/VPN allows access to the license server port.
   • In the client license dialog, attempt to return the borrowed license again.
2. If the license server has been changed or reinstalled
   • Confirm whether the same license server identity (hostname/host ID/port) is still valid.
   • If the server was rebuilt on new hardware or with a new host ID:
     • The old borrow record may no longer be recognized.
     • The client may not be able to check in to the “new” server instance.
3. Administrative release (server‑side)
   • To be done by License Server administrator:
     • Inspect the server’s active borrow/checkout table.
     • Manually release the stuck borrowed seat from the server side.
   • Document the action to ensure this one‑time override is traceable.
4. Client‑side cleanup (last resort)
   • If the original server instance is permanently gone and admin tools cannot recover the record, the client’s local borrow cache may need to be reset:
     • Follow internal instructions (or vendor guidance) to clear or reset the local license cache or borrow file.
     • This should only be done once an admin has confirmed that releasing the seat on the server side is safe or that the record is orphaned.
5. Prevent recurrence
   • Avoid long borrow periods when server changes are planned.
   • Communicate server migrations in advance and instruct users to return borrowed licenses before the cutover.
   • Keep a short guideline for users: “To return a borrowed license, you must be on VPN/inside the network and the original server must still exist.”