System and method for cloud-service asset management for portable computer test tools

A system for providing data communication is disclosed. The system includes a computer test tool configured to perform one or more diagnostic tests on a computer network and a cloud-based server. The cloud-based server is configured to couple to the communication network so as to exchange data with the computer test tool when the computer test tool is coupled to the communication network. The cloud-based server tracks usage of the computer test tool and, based on the tracked usage, transmits a message to the computer test tool that temporarily enables the computer test tool based on a predetermined condition. Receive an identifier that identifies a computer test tool and associated usage data 402 Yes tool's authorization /iS th~e expired or eaniguer t exceeded tool's authorization Yes within a predeterrrned time interval of expiration? Access the authorized usage wrigtorenewthe schedule that corresponds to anig wena theidentifiedcomputertesttool displayed time interval Force expiration of 412 authorization of Does comuter test tool the usage data No comply with the usage Yes rescribed by the accessed authorized usage Transmit schedule? a message to be , displayed that the 418 414 'test tool is disabled pending a renewed Receive and authorization. store the test data f41 as an Perform metric operations authorization on the usage data renewal received and Maintain authorization and wait approved? for next data transmission from one of the computer test tools Send an enable message to authorize use in accordance with the request approval Fig.