Abstract: A software distribution service provides time-based licensing of software. Third-party software is augmented with functionality to enable tracking based on usage, and is downloaded through a network to a user's workstation. A user logs into an account over the network to verify account details and a sufficient balance with an authentication server. If verified, the augmented software is activated, and the time of usage is tracked. During use, the augmented software periodically communicates with the authentication server to deduct a metered-usage fee from the user's pre-paid account balance.