RPX (RPXC) 10-K 2 Mar 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Feb. 20, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	RPX Corporation
Document Type	10-K
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		54,277,822
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Central Index Key	1509432
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Public Float			$906,319

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$78,019	$100,155
Short-term investments	239,514	190,567
Restricted cash	584	364
Accounts receivable	24,793	38,477
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	3,466	10,546
Deferred tax assets	4,400	3,817
Total current assets	350,776	343,926
Patent assets, net	236,349	219,954
Property and equipment, net	4,151	4,667
Intangible assets, net	3,526	1,718
Goodwill	19,978	16,460
Restricted cash, less current portion	1,091	1,454
Other assets	26,100	622
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent	93	0
Total assets	642,064	588,801
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	235	332
Accrued liabilities	14,257	8,784
Deferred revenue	133,316	131,808
Deferred payment obligations	0	500
Other current liabilities	640	1,638
Total current liabilities	148,448	143,062
Deferred revenue, less current portion	2,893	5,935
Deferred tax liabilities, less current portion	0	11,654
Other liabilities	5,678	3,227
Total liabilities	157,019	163,878
Common stock	5	5
Additional paid-in capital	326,280	305,343
Retained earnings	158,868	119,527
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-108	48
Total stockholders' equity	485,045	424,923
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$642,064	$588,801

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Common stock, par value per share (in dollars per share)	$0.00	$0.00
Common stock authorized (in shares)	200,000	200,000
Common stock issued (in shares)	54,062	52,692
Common stock outstanding (in shares)	54,062	52,692

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Revenue	$67,747	$65,407	$64,293	$61,888	$60,275	$58,554	$57,481	$61,194	$259,335	$237,504	$197,688
Cost of revenue	33,529	30,444	31,542	28,920	32,641	29,766	24,694	23,670	124,435	110,771	82,323
Selling, general and administrative expenses	18,059	17,786	18,579	17,255	16,732	15,584	15,736	14,473	71,679	62,525	53,590
(Gain) loss on sale of patent assets, net	0	-8	-699	0	0	0	126	0	-707	126	-177
Operating income	16,159	17,185	14,871	15,713	10,902	13,204	16,925	23,051	63,928	64,082	61,952
Other income (expense), net	88	73	94	99	43	56	63	51	354	213	117
Income before provision for income taxes	16,247	17,258	14,965	15,812	10,945	13,260	16,988	23,102	64,282	64,295	62,069
Provision for income taxes	6,998	6,425	5,566	5,952	3,951	4,863	6,291	8,407	24,941	23,512	23,112
Net income	9,249	10,833	9,399	9,860	6,994	8,397	10,697	14,695	39,341	40,783	38,957
Net income available to common stockholders:
Basic	9,249	10,833	9,399	9,860	6,994	8,395	10,691	14,678	39,341	40,763	38,455
Diluted	$9,249	$10,833	$9,399	$9,860	$6,994	$8,395	$10,691	$14,678	$39,341	$40,763	$38,474
Net income available to common stockholders per common share:
Basic	$0.17	$0.20	$0.18	$0.19	$0.13	$0.16	$0.21	$0.29	$0.74	$0.78	$0.77
Diluted	$0.17	$0.20	$0.17	$0.18	$0.13	$0.16	$0.20	$0.28	$0.72	$0.76	$0.74
Weighted-average shares used in computing net income available to common stockholders per common share:
Basic									53,444	51,956	49,766
Diluted									54,818	53,652	51,802

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Net income	$39,341	$40,783	$38,957
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period	-156	67	15
Less: reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income	0	1	-12
Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax	-156	68	3
Comprehensive income	$39,185	$40,851	$38,960

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Sto

Consolidated Statements Of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-In Capital	Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
In Thousands
Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	$299,084	$5	$259,315	$39,787	($23)
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2011		49,145
Net income	38,957
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax	3				3
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options, vesting of restricted stock units and other common stock issuances, shares		1,869
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options, vesting of restricted stock units and other common stock issuances	3,154	0	3,154
Issuance of Common Stock Related to Business Acquisition	0
Issuance of restricted stock upon early exercise of options, shares		70
Vesting of stock options early exercised	105	0	105
Stock-based compensation	10,644		10,644
Tax benefit of equity award deductions	8,317		8,317
Other	-5		-5
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	360,259	5	281,530	78,744	-20
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2012		51,084
Net income	40,783
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax	68				68
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options, vesting of restricted stock units and other common stock issuances, shares		1,618
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options, vesting of restricted stock units and other common stock issuances	5,223	0	5,223
Issuance of Common Stock Related to Business Acquisition	0
Vesting of stock options early exercised	66	0	66
Stock-based compensation	16,192		16,192
Tax benefit of equity award deductions	3,088		3,088
Repurchase of common stock, shares	-10
Tax withholdings related to net share settlements of restricted stock units	-756		-756
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	424,923	5	305,343	119,527	48
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2013		52,692
Net income	39,341			39,341
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax	-156				-156
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options, vesting of restricted stock units and other common stock issuances, shares	623	1,188
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options, vesting of restricted stock units and other common stock issuances	3,163		3,163
Issuance of Common Stock Related to Business Acquisition, Shares		182
Issuance of Common Stock Related to Business Acquisition	3,156		3,156
Stock-based compensation	17,747		17,747
Tax benefit of equity award deductions	1,799		1,799
Tax withholdings related to net share settlements of restricted stock units	4,928		4,928
Balance at Dec. 31, 2014	$485,045	$5	$326,280	$158,868	($108)
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2014		54,062

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Sto1

Consolidated Statements Of Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012
Initial Public Offering
Stock issuance costs	$2,915
Issuance price of common stock	$19
Secondary Offering
Stock issuance costs	$540
Issuance price of common stock	$20.49

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income	$39,341	$40,783	$38,957
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	123,138	108,629	83,137
Stock-based compensation	17,656	16,115	10,334
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	-2,598	-3,857	-8,574
Imputed interest on deferred payment obligations	0	0	94
(Gain) loss on sale of patent assets, net	-707	126	-177
Amortization of premium on investments	6,585	6,013	5,131
Deferred taxes	-14,216	-3,302	1,477
Other	-500	116	12
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	14,006	-13,333	-8,984
Other receivables	0	33,775	-33,775
Prepaid expenses and other assets	3,565	-9,376	8,667
Accounts payable	-97	-236	-253
Accrued and other liabilities	6,930	3,648	-711
Deferred revenue	-1,634	33,372	-3,958
Net cash provided by operating activities	191,469	212,473	91,377
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchases of investments classified as available-for-sale	-224,548	-210,660	-185,582
Maturities of investments classified as available-for-sale	174,650	147,052	188,026
Sales of investments classified as available-for-sale	0	1,099	0
Business acquisitions	-2,286	0	-45,765
(Increase) decrease in restricted cash	143	-1,818	647
Purchases of intangible assets	0	0	-64
Purchases of property and equipment	-1,511	-2,880	-1,726
Acquisitions of patent assets	-136,968	-127,101	-87,366
Payment of Deposit for Acquisition of Intangible Asset	-25,000	0	0
Proceeds from sale of patent assets	1,086	100	200
Net cash used in investing activities	-214,434	-194,208	-131,630
Cash flows from financing activities
Repayments of principal on deferred payment obligations	0	0	-5,150
Proceeds from other obligations	0	0	500
Proceeds from exercise of stock options and other common stock issuances	3,159	5,151	3,218
Taxes paid related to net share settlements of restricted stock units	-4,928	-756	0
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	2,598	3,857	8,574
Net cash provided by financing activities	829	8,252	7,142
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	-22,136	26,517	-33,111
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	100,155	73,638
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	78,019	100,155	73,638
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information
Cash paid for interest	0	0	94
Cash paid for income taxes	15,066	17,849	4,672
Non-cash investing and financing activities
Change in patent assets purchased and accrued but not paid	-500	-600	1,100
Change in fixed assets purchased and accrued but not yet paid	-166	166	0
Change in other assets purchased and accrued but not paid	-63	63	-250
Patent assets and intangible assets received in barter transactions	0	0	54
Issuance of Common Stock Related to Business Acquisition	3,156	0	0
Cost related to public offerings accrued but not paid	$425	$0	$0

Nature_of_Business

Nature of Business	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Nature of Business
Nature Of Business	Nature of Business
	RPX Corporation (also referred to herein as “RPX” or the “Company”) helps companies reduce patent-related risk and expense by providing a subscription-based patent risk management solution that facilitates more efficient exchanges of value between owners and users of patents compared to transactions driven by actual or threatened litigation. The core of the Company’s solution is defensive patent aggregation, in which it acquires patents or licenses to patents that are being or may be asserted against the Company’s current or prospective clients. The Company may occasionally enter into agreements to acquire covenants not to sue in order to further mitigate its clients’ litigation risk. The acquired patents, licenses to patents, patent rights and agreements for covenants not to sue are collectively referred to as “patent assets.” The Company’s clients pay an annual subscription fee and in return, receive a license from the Company to substantially all of its patent assets and access to its proprietary patent market intelligence and data. In addition to the Company’s core solution, in August 2012, the Company began underwriting patent infringement liability insurance policies to insure against certain costs of litigation from non-practicing entities (“NPEs”). In March 2014, the Company formed a reinsurance company to assume some portion of the underwriting risk on insurance policies that the Company issues on behalf of a Lloyd’s of London underwriting syndicate. The Company began placing new policies under the reinsurance model in May 2014. As of and for the year ended December 31, 2014, the effect of the insurance policies that the Company has issued or assumed through our reinsurance business was not material to the Company’s results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies	Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies
	Basis of Presentation
	These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”) and include the accounts of RPX and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, contingent assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period covered by the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. The Company bases its estimates on various factors and information which may include, but are not limited to, history and prior experience, expected future results, new related events and current economic conditions, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
	Significant estimates and assumptions made by management include the determination of:
	•	the estimated economic useful lives of patent assets;
	•	the determination of a best estimated selling price of a subscription to the Company’s patent risk management solution and its insurance offering;
	•	the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed for business combinations;
	•	recognition and measurement of current and deferred income taxes and uncertain tax positions;
	•	the fair value of stock awards issued; and
	•	the estimated reserves for known and incurred but not reported claims.
	Revenue Recognition
	The Company recognizes revenue in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 605, Revenue Recognition (“ASC 605”) and related authoritative guidance. The primary source of the Company’s revenue is fees paid by its clients under subscription agreements. The Company believes the subscription component of its patent risk management solution comprises a single deliverable. The Company recognizes each subscription fee ratably over the period for which the fee applies. Revenue is recognized net of any discounts or other contractual incentives. The Company starts recognizing revenue when all of the following criteria have been met:
	•	Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists. All subscription fees are supported by an executed subscription agreement.
	•	Delivery has occurred or services have been rendered. The subscription agreement calls for the Company to provide its patent risk management solution over a specific term commencing on the agreement effective date. Because services are not on an individualized basis (i.e., the Company generally performs its services on behalf of all of its clients as opposed to each client individually), delivery occurs automatically with the passage of time. Consequently, the Company recognizes subscription revenue ratably.
	•	Seller’s price to the buyer is fixed or determinable. Each client’s annual subscription fee is typically based on the Company’s rate card in effect at the time of the client’s initial agreement. A client’s subscription fee is generally determined using the applicable rate card and its normalized operating income, which is defined as the greater of (i) the average of its operating income for the three most recently reported fiscal years and (ii) 5% of its revenue for the most recently reported fiscal year. The fee for the first year of the agreement is typically determined and invoiced at the time of contract execution. The fee for each subsequent year of the agreement is generally calculated and invoiced in advance prior to each anniversary date of the agreement.
	•	Collectability is reasonably assured. Subscription fees are generally collected on or near the effective date of the agreement and again at or near each anniversary date thereof. The Company does not recognize revenue in instances where collectability is not reasonably assured. Generally, the Company’s subscription agreements state that all fees paid are non-refundable.
	In some limited instances, the subscription agreement includes a contingency clause, giving one or both parties an option to terminate the agreement and receive a full refund if contingencies are not resolved within a defined time period. In those instances, revenue will not be recognized until the contingency has been satisfied. The revenue earned during the period between the effective date of the agreement and the contingency removal date is recognized on the contingency removal date. Thereafter, revenue is recognized ratably over the remaining subscription term.
	The Company’s clients generally receive a term license to, and a release from all prior damages associated with, patent assets in the Company’s portfolio. The term license to each patent asset typically converts to a perpetual license at the end of a contractually specified vesting period, provided that the client is a member at such time. The Company does not view the conversion from term license to perpetual license to be a separate deliverable in its arrangements with its clients because the utility of, access to and freedom to practice the inventions covered by the patent asset is no different between a term and perpetual license.
	In some instances, the Company accepts a payment from a client to finance part or all of an acquisition. The Company refers to such transactions as syndicated acquisitions. The accounting for syndicated acquisitions can be complex and often requires judgments on the part of management as to the appropriate accounting treatment. In accordance with ASC 605-45, Revenue Recognition: Principal Agent Considerations, in instances where the Company substantively acts as an agent to acquire patent rights from a seller on behalf of clients who are paying for such rights separately from their subscription agreements, the Company may treat the client payments on a net basis. When treated on a net basis, there may be little or no revenue recognized for such contributions, and the basis of the acquired patent rights may exclude the amounts paid by the contributing client based on the Company’s determination that it is not the principal in these transactions. In these situations, where the Company substantively acts as an agent, the contributing clients are typically defendants in an active or threatened patent infringement litigation filed by the owner of a patent. The Company’s involvement is to assist its clients to secure a dismissal from litigation and a license to the underlying patents.
	Key indicators evaluated to reach the determination that the Company is not the principal in the transaction include, among others:
	•	the seller of the patent assets is generally viewed as the primary obligor in the arrangement, given that it owns and controls the underlying patent(s) and thus has the absolute authority to grant and deliver any release from past damages and dismissal from litigation, as well the general terms of the license granted;
	•	the Company has no inventory risk, as the clients generally enter into their contractual obligations with the Company prior to or contemporaneous to the Company entering into a contractual obligation with the seller;
	•	the Company generally has limited pricing latitude as client contributions are based on the sales price set by the seller;
	•	the Company is not involved in the determination of the product or service specification and has no ability to change the product or perform any part of the service in connection with these transactions, as the seller owns the underlying patent(s); and
	•	the Company has limited or no credit risk, as each respective client has a contractually binding obligation, such clients are generally of high credit quality and in many instances, the Company collects the client contribution prior to making a payment to the seller.
	In certain syndicated transactions, the Company may recognize revenue upon the sale of licenses to specific patent assets and/or upon completion of the rendering of advisory services.
	Revenue recognition for arrangements with multiple deliverables. A multiple-element arrangement may include the sale of a subscription to the Company’s patent risk management solution and an insurance policy to cover certain costs associated with patent infringement lawsuits by NPEs, each of which are individually considered separate units of accounting. Each element within a multiple-element arrangement is accounted for as a separate unit of accounting given that the delivered products have value to the customer on a standalone basis. The Company considers a deliverable to have standalone value if the product or service is sold separately by itself or another vendor. The delivery of insurance coverage is not dependent on a client’s subscription to the Company’s patent risk management solution. While the Company believes its insurance product offering is unique, its clients are able to purchase insurance coverage as a standalone product from other providers. The Company sells the components of its patent risk management solution on a standalone basis.
	The Company has determined its best estimate of selling price (“BESP”) for a subscription to our patent risk management solution based on the following:
	•	List price, which represents the rates listed on its annual rate card. The Company publishes a standard rate card annually. Each client’s subscription fee is typically calculated using its applicable rate card and its normalized operating income, which is defined as the greater of (i) 5% of the client’s most recently reported fiscal year’s revenue, and (ii) the average of the three most recently reported fiscal years’ operating income of the client. Each client’s annual subscription fee is reset annually based on its revenue and operating income for its most recently completed fiscal years.
	The Company has determined its BESP for its insurance product based on the following:
	•	Actuarially determined factors. Although the Company sells its insurance product both on a standalone basis and as a component of a multiple-element arrangement, the pricing is not affected by the subscription to our patent risk management solution. The Company uses an actuarial model that calculates an individual client’s insurance premium based on its projected annual frequency (i.e., number of claims during the policy term) and severity (i.e., the amount which it expects to settle a claim).
	Accounting for Payments to Clients
	The Company occasionally agrees to provide payments, discounts or other contractual incentives to clients in exchange for specified consideration. The Company accounts for such contract provisions in accordance with ASC 605-50, Revenue Recognition: Customer Payments and Incentives, which requires the Company to offset the amount of the payment, discount or other contractual incentive against revenue if the Company is unable to demonstrate both receipt of an identifiable benefit and determine the fair value of the benefit received.
	Deferred Revenue
	The Company generally invoices its clients upon execution of a new agreement and prior to any anniversary date for existing agreements. The Company records the amount of fees billed as deferred revenue and recognizes such amounts as revenue ratably over the period for which they apply. The Company generally records deferred revenue when it has the legal right to bill amounts owed and the applicable service period has commenced. In the rare instance where a term has commenced but the fees have not yet been invoiced, the Company records an unbilled receivable. Deferred revenue that will be recognized during the succeeding 12-month period from the respective balance sheet date is recorded as deferred revenue, current, and the remaining portion is recorded as non-current.
	Accounts Receivable
	Accounts receivable primarily includes amounts billed to clients under their subscription agreements. The majority of the Company’s clients are well-established operating companies with investment-grade credit. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company has not incurred any losses on its accounts receivable. Based upon its historical collections experience and specific client information, the Company has determined that no allowance for doubtful accounts was required at either December 31, 2014 or 2013.
	Concentration of Risk
	The Company is subject to concentrations of credit risk principally attributable to cash, cash equivalents, investments, accounts receivable and other receivables. The Company’s non-restricted cash balances deposited in U.S. banks are non-interest bearing and are insured up to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) limits. Cash equivalents primarily consist of institutional money market funds, U.S. government and agency securities, municipal bonds and commercial paper denominated primarily in U.S. dollars. Investment policies have been implemented that limit purchases of debt securities to investment-grade securities.
	Credit risk with respect to accounts and other receivables is generally mitigated by short collection periods and/or subscription agreements that provide for payments in advance of the rendering of services. Three clients individually accounted for 28%, 24%, and 14% of accounts receivable at December 31, 2014. Four clients individually accounted for 18%, 16%, 13% and 11% of accounts receivable at December 31, 2013. No client accounted for more than 10% of subscription fee revenue in any of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 or 2012.
	Fair Value Measurements
	The Company applies fair value accounting for all financial assets and liabilities and non-financial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis. The Company defines fair value as the price that would be received from selling an asset or that would be paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. When determining the fair value measurements for assets and liabilities, which are required to be recorded at fair value, the Company considers the principal or most advantageous market in which the Company would transact and the market-based risk measurements or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, such as risks inherent in valuation techniques, transfer restrictions and credit risk. Fair value is estimated by applying the following hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value into three levels and bases the categorization within the hierarchy upon the lowest level of input that is available and significant to the fair value measurement:
	Level 1 – Valuations based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and readily accessible by the Company at the reporting date.
	Level 2 – Valuations based on inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for assets or liabilities, either directly or indirectly through market corroboration, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument.
	Level 3 – Valuations based on inputs that are unobservable.
	The carrying amounts of the Company’s financial instruments, which include cash equivalents, investments, accounts receivable, other receivables and accounts payable, approximate their fair values due to their short maturities. Based on borrowing rates currently available to the Company for notes payable and other deferred payment obligations with similar terms, and considering the Company’s credit risk, the carrying value of deferred payment obligations approximates fair value.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	The Company’s cash and cash equivalents principally consist of commercial paper, institutional money market funds, U.S. government and agency securities and municipal bonds denominated primarily in U.S. dollars. Cash equivalents are highly liquid, short-term investments having an original maturity of 90 days or less that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash.
	Restricted Cash
	Restricted cash consists primarily of a certificate of deposit established as collateral for the Company’s office lease agreement as well as amounts held in trust. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had restricted cash (current and non-current) of $1.7 million and $1.8 million, respectively.
	Short-Term Investments
	The Company holds short-term investments in municipal and corporate bonds maturing between 90 days and 12 months, commercial paper and U.S. government and agency securities. The Company considers its investments as available to support current operations. As a result, the Company classifies its investments, including those with stated maturities beyond twelve months, as current assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company classifies these securities as “available-for-sale” and carries them at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. Unrealized gains or losses are recorded, net of estimated taxes, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), a component of stockholders’ equity. Realized gains and losses are recognized upon sale. The specific identification method is used to determine the cost basis of fixed income securities sold.
	The Company periodically evaluates its investments for impairment due to declines in market value considered to be “other-than-temporary.” This evaluation consists of several qualitative and quantitative factors, including the Company’s ability and intent to hold the investment until a forecasted recovery occurs, as well as any decline in the investment quality of the security and the severity and duration of the unrealized loss. In the event of a determination that a decline in market value is other-than-temporary, the Company will recognize an impairment loss, and a new cost basis in the investment will be established. To date, the Company has not recorded any impairment related to its investments in its consolidated statements of operations.
	Property and Equipment, Net
	Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using a straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, which is generally three to five years. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred, and improvements and betterments are capitalized. When assets are retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the consolidated balance sheet and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in the consolidated statement of operations in the period realized. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease, or the useful life of the assets, whichever is shorter.
	Internal-Use Software and Website Development Costs
	The Company capitalizes development costs related to internal-use software and its website and records such amounts as property and equipment, net, on its consolidated balance sheets. These costs include personnel and personnel-related expenses and consultant fees incurred during the application development stages of the project. Costs related to preliminary project activities, minor enhancement and maintenance, and post implementation activities are expensed as incurred. Internal-use software is amortized on a straight-line basis over its useful life, which is generally three years, beginning on the date the software is placed into service. Management evaluates the useful lives of these assets on an annual basis and tests for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances occur that could impact the recoverability of these assets.
	During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company capitalized $1.2 million, $1.2 million, and $1.9 million, respectively, of internal-use software and website development costs. Amortization of internal-use software was $1.3 million, $1.1 million, $0.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Patent Assets, Net
	The Company generally acquires patent assets from third parties using cash and contractually deferred payments. Patent assets are recorded at fair value at acquisition. The fair value of the assets acquired is generally based on the fair value of the consideration exchanged. The asset value includes the cost of legal and other fees associated with the acquisition of the assets. Costs incurred to maintain and prosecute patents and patent applications are expensed as incurred.
	Because each client generally receives a license to the majority of the Company’s patent assets, the Company is unable to reliably determine the pattern over which its patent assets are consumed. As a result, the Company amortizes each patent asset on a straight-line basis. The amortization period is equal to the asset’s estimated economic useful life. Estimating the economic useful life of patent assets requires significant management judgment. The Company considers various factors in estimating the economic useful lives of its patent assets, including the remaining statutory life of the underlying patents, the applicability of the assets to future clients, the vesting period for current clients to obtain perpetual licenses to such patent assets, any contractual commitments by clients that are related to such patent assets, its estimate of the period of time during which the Company may sign subscription agreements with prospective clients that may find relevance in the patent assets, and the remaining contractual term of the Company’s existing clients at the time of acquisition. In certain instances, where the Company acquires patent assets and secures related client committed cash flows that extend beyond the statutory life of the underlying patent assets, the useful life may extend beyond the statutory life of the patent assets. As of December 31, 2014, the estimated economic useful life of the Company’s patent assets generally ranged from 24 to 60 months. The weighted-average estimated economic useful life of patent assets acquired since inception was 45 months. The weighted-average estimated economic useful life of patent assets acquired during the year ended December 31, 2014 was 39 months. The Company periodically evaluates whether events and circumstances have occurred that may warrant a revision to the remaining estimated useful life of its patent assets.
	In instances where the Company sells patent assets, the amount of consideration received is compared to the asset’s carrying value to determine and recognize a gain or loss.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
The Company assesses the recoverability of its long-lived assets, which includes patent assets, other intangible assets and property and equipment, when events or changes in circumstances indicate their carrying value may not be recoverable. Such events or changes in circumstances may include: a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which a long-lived asset is being used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate that could affect the value of a long-lived asset, an accumulation of costs significantly in excess of the amount originally expected for the acquisition or development of a long-lived asset, current or future operating or cash flow losses that demonstrate continuing losses associated with the use of a long-lived asset or a current expectation that, more-likely-than-not, a long-lived asset will be sold or otherwise disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life. The Company licenses a majority of the portfolio of patent assets to all of its membership clients and thus views these assets as a single asset group. The Company assesses recoverability of a long-lived asset by determining whether the carrying value of these assets can be recovered through projected undiscounted cash flows. If the carrying value of the assets exceeds the forecasted undiscounted cash flows, an impairment loss is recognized, and is recorded as the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value. An impairment loss is charged to operations in the period in which management determines such impairment. To date, there have been no impairments of long-lived assets identified.
Goodwill
The Company reviews goodwill for impairment at least annually on September 30th or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of goodwill may not be recoverable. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company elected to first assess the qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of its single reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment under ASC Topic 350, Intangibles - Goodwill & Other (“ASC Topic 350”). This qualitative assessment evaluated factors including, but not limited to, economic market and industry conditions, cost factors and the overall financial performance of the Company. No impairment charges were recorded as a result of the Company’s 2014 and 2013 annual impairment analysis.
If the Company were to determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of its single reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then the two-step goodwill impairment test is performed. The first step in identifying a potential impairment compares the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount. If the carrying amount exceeds its fair value, the second step would need to be performed; otherwise, no further step is required. The second step, measuring the impairment loss, compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. Any excess of the goodwill carrying amount over the implied fair value is recognized as an impairment charge, and the carrying value of goodwill is written down to fair value.
Intangible Assets, Net
Intangible assets, net primarily consists of intangible assets acquired from other companies as a result of acquisitions. Such assets are capitalized and amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Intangible assets, net excludes patent related intangible assets, which are recorded within patent assets, net in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Advertising Costs
The Company expenses advertising costs as they are incurred. Advertising expenses were not material for any of the periods presented.
Foreign Currency Accounting
The functional currency of the Company’s international subsidiaries is the U.S. dollar. Monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured using the current exchange rate at the balance sheet date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities and capital accounts are reflected using historical exchange rates. Expenses are remeasured using the average exchange rates in effect during the period. Foreign currency exchange gains and losses, which have not been material for any periods presented, are included in the consolidated statements of operations within other income, net.
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes using an asset and liability approach, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets or liabilities for the tax-effected temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of its assets and liabilities and for net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The measurement of deferred tax assets is reduced, if necessary, by the amount of any tax benefits that, based on available evidence, are not expected to be realized.
The Company assesses the likelihood that its deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income, and to the extent the Company believes that recovery is not likely, the Company establishes a valuation allowance. Judgment is required in determining the Company’s provision for income taxes, deferred tax assets and liabilities, and any valuation allowance recorded against the net deferred tax assets. The Company did not apply a valuation allowance against its deferred tax balances at December 31, 2014 or 2013.
The calculation of the Company’s tax liabilities involves dealing with uncertainties in the application of complex tax laws and regulations in a multitude of jurisdictions across its global operations. ASC 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”) provides that a tax benefit from an uncertain tax position may be recognized when it is more-likely-than-not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, on the basis of the technical merits. ASC 740 also provides guidance on measurement, derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition.
The Company recognizes tax liabilities in accordance with ASC 740 and adjusts these liabilities when its judgment changes as a result of the evaluation of new information not previously available. Because of the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from its current estimate of the tax liabilities. These differences will be reflected as increases or decreases to income tax expense in the period in which new information is available.
The tax expense or benefit for extraordinary items, unusual or infrequently occurring items and items that do not represent a tax effect of current-year ordinary income are treated as discrete items and recorded in the interim period in which the events occur.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for stock-based compensation for equity-settled awards issued to employees and directors under ASC 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation (“ASC 718”). ASC 718 requires that stock-based compensation expense for equity-settled awards made to employees and directors be measured based on the estimated grant date fair value and recognized over the requisite service period. These equity-settled awards include stock options, restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and performance-based RSUs with a market condition (“PBRSUs”).
The fair value of stock options is estimated as of the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The fair value of RSUs is estimated based on the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. For stock options and RSUs, the fair value of award that is expected to vest is recognized as compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Because stock-based compensation expense is based on awards ultimately expected to vest, it reflects estimated forfeitures. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from initial estimates. Previously recognized expense is reversed for the portion of awards forfeited prior to vesting.
The fair value of PBRSUs is estimated as of the date of grant using the Monte-Carlo simulation model. For PBRSUs, stock-based compensation expense is recognized over the derived service period for each tranche (or market condition). Because the Company’s PBRSUs have multiple derived service periods, it uses the graded-vesting attribution method. The graded vesting attribution method requires a company to recognize compensation expense over the requisite service period for each vesting tranche of the award as though the award were, in substance, multiple awards. The compensation expense for these awards will only be reversible if the employee terminates prior to completing the requisite service periods for these awards (i.e., compensation expense will not be reversed if the market condition is not met).
Estimates of the fair value of equity-settled awards as of the grant date using valuation models, such as the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and a Monte-Carlo simulation model, are affected by assumptions regarding a number of complex variables. Changes in the assumptions can materially affect the fair value and ultimately how much stock-based compensation expense is recognized. These inputs are subjective and generally require significant analysis and judgment to develop. For all stock options granted to date, the Company calculated the expected term using the SEC simplified method. The Company has limited information on its past volatility and has a limited operating history. Therefore, it has estimated the volatility data based on a study of publicly traded industry peer companies. For purposes of identifying these peer companies, the Company considered the industry, stage of development, size and financial leverage of potential comparable companies. As of the second quarter of 2014, the Company no longer calculates expected term using the SEC simplified method and began to calculate its expected term. The Company has not granted any stock options since making the change. The risk-free interest rate is based on the yield available on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues similar in duration to the expected term of the equity-settled award.
The Company accounts for stock-based compensation for equity-settled awards issued to non-employees in exchange for goods and services under ASC 505-50, Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees (“ASC 505-50”). ASC 505-50 requires that equity-settled awards issued to non-employees be measured at the fair value as of the date at which either the commitment for performance by the non-employee to earn the award is reached or the date the non-employee’s performance is complete. Until that point is reached, the award must be revalued at each reporting period with the true-up to expense recorded in the then current period earnings. The value of the award is recognized as an expense over the requisite service period.
Business Combinations
The Company applies the provisions of ASC 805, Business Combinations (“ASC 805”), in the accounting for its business acquisitions. ASC 805 requires companies to recognize goodwill separately from the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, which are valued at their acquisition date fair values. Goodwill as of the acquisition date represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed.
The Company uses significant estimates and assumptions, including fair value estimates, to determine fair value of assets acquired, liabilities assumed and, when applicable, the related useful lives of the acquired assets, as of the business combination date. When those estimates are provisional, the Company refines them as necessary during the measurement period. The measurement period is the period after the acquisition date, not to exceed one year, in which the Company may gather new information about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date to adjust the provisional amounts recognized. Measurement period adjustments are applied retrospectively, if material. All other adjustments are recorded to the consolidated statements of operations.
Reserves for Known and Incurred but not Reported Claims
Reserves for known and incurred but not reported claims represent estimated claims costs and related expenses for patent infringement liability insurance policies in effect. Reserves for known claims are established based on individual case estimates. The Company uses actuarial models and techniques to estimate the reserve for incurred but not reported claims.
Loss expense for known and incurred but not reported claims are charged to earnings after deducting recoverable amounts under the Company’s reinsurance contract.
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
In November 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2014-17, Business Combinations (Topic 805) – Pushdown Accounting ("ASU 2014-17"). The primary purpose of the ASU is to provide guidance on whether and at what threshold an acquired entity that is a business or nonprofit activity can apply pushdown accounting in its separate financial statements. The amendments should reduce diversity in the timing and content of footnote disclosure. ASU 2014-17 is effective after November 18, 2014. The Company does not believe that this guidance will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity's Ability to Continue as a Going Concern ("ASU 2014-15") provides new guidance related to management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern by incorporating and expanding upon certain principles that are currently in U.S. auditing standards and to provide related footnote disclosures. This new guidance is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter; early adoption is permitted. The requirements of ASU 2014-15 are not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period (“ASU 2014-12”), which amends Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718) in the Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”). ASU 2014-12 requires that a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition. A reporting entity should apply existing guidance in Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718) as it relates to awards with performance conditions that affect vesting to account for such awards. The amendments in ASU 2014-12 will be effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and early adoption is permitted. The adoption of ASU 2014-12 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (“ASU 2014-09”), which will supersede most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) once it becomes effective. ASU 2014-09 requires an entity to recognize revenues when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration that is expected to be received for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 defines a five-step process to achieve this core principle and, in doing so, it is possible more judgment and estimates may be required within the revenue recognition process than required under existing U.S. GAAP including identifying performance obligations in the contract, estimating the amount of variable consideration to include in the transaction price and allocating the transaction price to each separate performance obligation. ASU 2014-09 will be effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of ASU 2014-12 on its consolidated financial statements.
In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant and Equipment (Topic 360) (“ASU 2014-08”), which amends the requirements for reporting discontinued operations and enhances disclosure requirements. The amendments in ASU 2014-08 will be effective for all disposals (or classifications as held for sale) of components of an entity beginning on or after December 15, 2014 and early adoption is permitted. The adoption of ASU 2014-08 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-02, Reporting of Amounts of Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (“ASU 2013-02”), which amends Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) in the ASC. These amendments require an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. In addition, an entity is required to present significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income. The amendments in ASU 2013-02 are effective for the Company’s interim and annual fiscal periods that began January 1, 2013. The adoption of ASU 2013-02 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Net_Income_Available_to_Common

Net Income Available to Common Stockholders	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Net Income Available to Common Stockholders
Net Income Available to Common Stockholders	Net Income Available to Common Stockholders
	Basic and diluted net income per share available to common stockholders are presented in conformity with the two-class method required for participating securities. Under the two-class method, basic net income per share available to common stockholders is computed by dividing the net income available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per share available to common stockholders is computed by using the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding, including potential dilutive shares of common stock, assuming the dilutive effect of outstanding stock options and restricted stock units using the treasury stock method.
	The following table presents the calculation of basic and diluted net income per share available to common stockholders (in thousands, except for per share data):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Net income available to common stockholders:
	Numerator:
	Basic:
	Net income	$	39,341		$	40,783		$	38,957
	Allocation of net income to participating stockholders	—			(20		)	(502		)
	Net income available to common stockholders – basic	$	39,341		$	40,763		$	38,455
	Diluted:
	Net income available to common stockholders – basic	$	39,341		$	40,763		$	38,455
	Undistributed earnings re-allocated to common stockholders	—			—			19
	Net income available to common stockholders – diluted	$	39,341		$	40,763		$	38,474
	Denominator:
	Basic shares:
	Weighted-average shares used in computing basic net income available to common stockholders	53,444			51,956			49,766
	Diluted shares:
	Weighted-average shares used in computing basic net income available to common stockholders	53,444			51,956			49,766
	Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock units using treasury-stock method	1,374			1,696			2,036
	Weighted-average shares used in computing diluted net income available to common stockholders	54,818			53,652			51,802
	Net income per common share available to common stockholders:
	Basic	$	0.74		$	0.78		$	0.77
	Diluted	$	0.72		$	0.76		$	0.74
	For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 the following securities were not included in the calculation of diluted shares outstanding, as the effect would have been anti-dilutive (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013			2012
	Weighted-average:
	Stock options outstanding	767		1,215			2,672
	Restricted stock units outstanding	100		127			395
	Shares of common stock subject to repurchase	—		25			649

Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V

Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements
	The following tables present the financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		December 31, 2014
		Fair Value		Level 1		Level 2
	Cash equivalents:
	Commercial paper	$	5,749	$	—	$	5,749
	U.S. government and agency securities	2,000		—		2,000
	Money market funds	451		451		—
	Municipal bonds	1,409		—		1,409
		$	9,609	$	451	$	9,158
	Short-term investments:
	Municipal bonds	$	120,282	$	—	$	120,282
	Commercial paper	2,498		—		2,498
	Corporate bonds	68,672		—		68,672
	U.S. government and agency securities	48,062		—		48,062
		$	239,514	$	—	$	239,514
		December 31, 2013
		Fair Value		Level 1		Level 2
	Cash equivalents:
	Commercial paper	$	34,498	$	—	$	34,498
	Money market funds	37		37		—
	U.S. government and agency securities	3,801		—		3,801
		$	38,336	$	37	$	38,299
	Short-term investments:
	Municipal bonds	$	146,100	$	—	$	146,100
	Commercial paper	31,597		—		31,597
	Corporate bonds	7,875		—		7,875
	U.S. government and agency securities	4,995		—		4,995
		$	190,567	$	—	$	190,567
	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company did not use level 3 inputs to measure financial assets or liabilities at fair value.

Shortterm_Investments

Short-term Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Short-term Investment [Abstract]
Short-term Investments	Short-term Investments
	The following table summarizes the Company’s investments in available-for-sale securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		December 31, 2014
				Unrealized
		Amortized Cost		Gains		Losses			Estimated Fair Value
	Municipal bonds	$	120,270	$	24	$	(12	)	$	120,282
	Commercial paper	2,498		—		—			2,498
	Corporate bonds	68,758		1		(87		)	68,672
	U.S. government and agency securities	48,095		—		(33		)	48,062
		$	239,621	$	25	$	(132	)	$	239,514
		December 31, 2013
				Unrealized
		Amortized Cost		Gains		Losses			Estimated Fair Value
	Municipal bonds	$	146,047	$	56	$	(3	)	$	146,100
	Commercial paper	31,597		—		—			31,597
	Corporate bonds	7,873		2		—			7,875
	U.S. government and agency securities	5,002		—		(7		)	4,995
		$	190,519	$	58	$	(10	)	$	190,567
	Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, included as a separate component of stockholders’ equity within accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Realized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are included in other income, net in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations and have not been material for all periods presented.
	The weighted-average remaining maturity of the Company’s investment portfolio was less than one year as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. As of December 31, 2014, no individual securities incurred continuous unrealized losses for greater than 12 months.

Patent_Assets_Net

Patent Assets, Net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Patent Assets [Abstract]
Patent Assets, Net	Patent Assets, Net
	Patent assets, net consisted of the following (in thousands):
		31-Dec-13			Additions			Sales			31-Dec-14
	Patent assets	$	529,526		$	136,468		$	(704	)	$	665,290
	Accumulated amortization	(309,572		)	(119,694		)	325			(428,941		)
	Patent assets, net	$	219,954								$	236,349
		31-Dec-12			Additions			Sales			31-Dec-13
	Patent assets	$	403,875		$	126,501		$	(850	)	$	529,526
	Accumulated amortization	(204,561		)	(105,533		)	522			(309,572		)
	Patent assets, net	$	199,314								$	219,954
	The Company’s acquired patent assets relate to technologies used or supplied by companies in a variety of market sectors, including consumer electronics, e-commerce, financial services, media distribution, mobile communications, networking, semiconductors, and software. The Company amortizes each acquired portfolio of patent assets on a straight-line basis over its estimated economic useful life. As of December 31, 2014, the estimated economic useful lives of the Company’s patent assets generally ranged from 24 to 60 months. As of December 31, 2014, the weighted-average estimated economic useful life at the time of acquisition was 45 months.
	As of December 31, 2014, the Company expects amortization expense in future periods to be as follows (in thousands):
	2015	$	111,415
	2016	80,576
	2017	36,241
	2018	7,166
	2019	951
	Total estimated future amortization expense	$	236,349
	Amortization expense was $119.7 million, $105.5 million and $80.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Syndicated Acquisitions
	Syndicated acquisitions are transactions involving patent assets that may cost more than the Company is prepared to spend with its own capital resources or that are relevant only to a very small number of clients. In such transactions, the Company may work to acquire these assets with financial assistance from the particular clients against whom they are being or may be asserted. Such clients either pay amounts separate from their subscription fee or, less frequently, lend the Company funds to be used in the transaction. As discussed in the revenue recognition policy in Note 2, the Company may treat the contributions from such clients as revenue on a gross or net basis depending on the specific facts and circumstances of the transaction. In the event that such contributions are recognized on a net basis, the Company will only capitalize the acquired asset that relates to its non-contributing clients. As a result, in such situations the cost basis of the acquired patent rights excludes the amounts paid by the contributing clients.

Business_Combinations

Business Combinations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Combinations	Business Combinations
	On June 19, 2014, the Company completed its acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding membership interests in DCML Services Corporation (“DCML”), a provider of data, intelligence and consulting on NPEs (operating under the trade name PatentFreedom). The final purchase price for DCML was approximately $6.2 million, consisting of $3.0 million in cash and 182,408 shares of the Company’s common stock. The fair value of the equity component of the final purchase price of $3.2 million was determined for accounting purposes based on the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the closing date of the acquisition. As of December 31, 2014, the Company has paid $2.6 million of the cash consideration. The shares of common stock were issued in July 2014 and are restricted pursuant to the terms of the agreement. The Company recorded $3.3 million of intangible assets which includes a covenant not to compete, proprietary data and customer relationships, $1.1 million in net deferred tax liabilities, $0.5 million in net tangible assets, and $3.5 million of residual goodwill. The covenant not to compete and proprietary data and customer relationships are being amortized over a weighted-average estimated economic useful life of 3 years. The goodwill recorded pertains to the cost benefits and operational synergies realized by integrating DCML’s data with the Company’s proprietary database that cross-references all patent, litigation and entity information. The goodwill is not expected to be deductible for tax purposes. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded acquisition-related costs of $0.1 million which were expensed as incurred and included in the Company's selling, general and administrative expenses. The Company has included the financial results of DCML in its consolidated financial statements from the acquisition date and the results are not individually material to its consolidated financial statements.

Property_and_Equipment_Net

Property and Equipment, Net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property and Equipment, Net
Property and Equipment, Net	operty and Equipment, Net
	Property and equipment, net, consisted of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Internal-use software	$	5,358		$	4,198
	Leasehold improvements	1,799			1,700
	Computer, equipment and software	1,221			1,096
	Furniture and fixtures	818			813
	Construction-in-progress	167			119
	Total property and equipment, gross	9,363			7,926
	Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(5,212		)	(3,259		)
	Total property and equipment, net	$	4,151		$	4,667
	Depreciation and amortization expense was $2.0 million, $1.6 million and $1.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Stock-based compensation capitalized as part of the cost of internal-use software was $0.1 million, $0.1 million, and $0.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Goodwill

Goodwill	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill	Goodwill
	The changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill were as follows (in thousands):
		2014		2013
	Balance as of January 1,	$	16,460	$	16,460
	Goodwill from business acquisition	3,518		—
	Balance as of December 31,	$	19,978	$	16,460

Intangible_Assets_Net

Intangible Assets, Net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Intangible Assets, Net
Intangible Assets, Net	Intangible Assets, Net
	Intangible assets, net, as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 consisted of the following (in thousands):
		December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
		Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Amount		Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Amount
	Proprietary data and models	$	2,100	$	(1,119	)	$	981	$	1,500	$	(637	)	$	863
	Trademarks	1,890		(1,565		)	325		1,890		(1,184		)	706
	Developed technology	433		(433		)	—		728		(625		)	103
	Customer relationships	1,050		(392		)	658		250		(215		)	35
	Covenant not to compete	1,920		(358		)	1,562		480		(469		)	11
		$	7,393	$	(3,867	)	$	3,526	$	4,848	$	(3,130	)	$	1,718
	As of December 31, 2014, the Company expects amortization expense in future periods to be as follows (in thousands):
	2015	$	1,725
	2016	1,288
	2017	513
	Total estimated future amortization expense	$	3,526
	Amortization expense related to intangible assets was $1.5 million each year for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Accrued_and_Other_Current_Liab

Accrued and Other Current Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accrued and Other Current Liabilities
Accrued And Other Current Liabilities	Accrued and Other Current Liabilities
	Accrued and other current liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Accrued payroll-related expenses	$	9,270	$	6,791
	Accrued expenses	4,987		1,993
	Total accrued liabilities	$	14,257	$	8,784
	Patent and other assets purchased but not paid	$	—	$	563
	Other current liabilities	640		1,075
	Total other current liabilities	$	640	$	1,638

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments And Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies
	Operating Lease Commitments
	The Company leases its facilities under non-cancelable lease agreements. Certain of these arrangements have free rent, escalating rent payment provisions and tenant allowances. Under such arrangements the Company recognizes rent expense on a straight line basis over the non-cancelable lease term and records the difference between cash rent payments and the recognition of rent expense as a deferred rent liability within other current liabilities (current portion) and other liabilities (non-current portion).
	In March 2012, the Company entered into an amended lease agreement related to its San Francisco, California office space. The amendment, which took effect on May 1, 2013, increased the rentable space to approximately 67,000 total square feet and extended the term through October 2019. The monthly base rent payments pursuant to this lease are approximately $0.3 million per month, increasing to approximately $0.4 million per month over the life of the lease.
	In October 2013, the Company entered into an agreement to sublease a portion of its San Francisco, California office space. This sublease took effect on February 1, 2014 for a 36-month term through January 2017. The Company received income from this sublease of $0.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.
	Rent expense related to non-cancelable operating leases, net of sublease income, was $3.5 million, $3.5 million and $2.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	As of December 31, 2014, the future minimum lease payments required under non-cancelable operating leases and the future minimum payments to be received from non-cancelable subleases were as follows:
	2015	$	4,284
	2016	4,269
	2017	4,206
	2018	4,273
	2019	3,613
	Future non-cancelable minimum operating lease payments	20,645
	Less: minimum payments to be received from non-cancelable subleases	(1,499		)
	Total future non-cancelable minimum operating lease payments, net	$	19,146
	Litigation
	From time to time, the Company may be a party to various litigation claims in the normal course of business. Legal fees and other costs associated with such actions are expensed as incurred. The Company assesses, in conjunction with its legal counsel, the need to record a liability for litigation or contingencies. A liability is recorded when and if it is determined that such a liability for litigation or contingencies is both probable and reasonably estimable. No liability for legal contingencies was recorded as of December 31, 2014 or 2013.
	In June 2013, Kevin O’Halloran, as Trustee of the Liquidating Trust of Teltronics, Inc. (the “Debtor”), filed a complaint in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida against the Company and Harris Corporation (the “Defendants”). The complaint alleges that the Defendants are liable under federal and state bankruptcy law regarding fraudulent transfers for the value of a patent portfolio purchased by the Company from Harris Corporation pursuant to an agreement entered into in January 2009, and within four years of the date the Debtor filed its petition in bankruptcy. The Company is not currently able to determine whether there is a reasonable possibility that a loss has been incurred, nor can it estimate the potential loss or range of the potential loss that may result from this litigation.
	In March 2012, Cascades Computer Innovations LLC filed a complaint in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California (the “Court”) against the Company and five of its clients (collectively the “Defendants”). The complaint alleges that the Defendants violated federal antitrust law, California antitrust law and California unfair competition law. The complaint further alleges that after we terminated our negotiations with the plaintiff to license certain patents held by the plaintiff, the Defendants violated the law by jointly refusing to negotiate or accept licenses under the plaintiff’s patents. The plaintiff seeks unspecified monetary damages and injunctive relief. In January 2013, the Court dismissed the complaint against the Defendants and granted the plaintiff leave to amend its complaint. In February 2013, the plaintiff filed an amended lawsuit alleging that the Defendants violated federal antitrust law, California antitrust law and California unfair competition law. In March 2014, the Court entered an order staying the litigation pending the resolution of related litigation in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, and has subsequently continued the stay until June 2015. We are not currently able to determine whether there is a reasonable possibility that a loss has been incurred, nor can we estimate the potential loss or range of the potential loss that may result from this litigation.
	Guarantees and Indemnifications
	The Company has, in connection with the sale of patent assets, agreed to indemnify and hold harmless the buyer of such patent assets for losses resulting from breaches of representations and warranties made by the Company. The terms of these indemnification agreements are generally perpetual. The maximum amount of potential future indemnification is unlimited. To date, the Company has not paid any amount to settle claims or defend lawsuits. The Company is unable to reasonably estimate the maximum amount that could be payable under these arrangements since these obligations are not capped but are conditional to the unique facts and circumstances involved. Accordingly, the Company had no liabilities recorded for these agreements as of December 31, 2014 or 2013. The Company has no reason to believe that there is any material liability related to such indemnification provisions. The Company does not indemnify its clients for patent infringement.
	In accordance with its amended and restated bylaws, the Company also indemnifies certain officers and employees for losses incurred in connection with actions, suits or proceedings threatened or brought against such officer or employee arising from his or her service to the Company as an officer or employee, subject to certain limitations. The term of the indemnification period is indefinite. The maximum amount of potential future indemnification is unspecified. The Company has no reason to believe that there is any material liability for actions, events or occurrences that have occurred to date.
	Reserves for Known and Incurred but not Reported Claims
	In August 2012, the Company began offering insurance to cover certain costs of litigation brought against its insured clients by NPEs. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had a total of 48 and 25 active policies, respectively, and has recorded a reserve of $0.5 million and $0.6 million, respectively, for known and incurred but not reported claims that represent estimated claim costs and related expenses.
	The Company regularly reviews loss reserves using a variety of actuarial techniques and updates them as its loss experience develops.
	Patent Asset Purchase Commitments
	In November 2013, the Company entered into an agreement to acquire patent assets for an aggregate purchase price of $3.0 million. Pursuant to this agreement, the Company paid the purchase price and acquired the patent assets in January 2014.

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Stock-Based Compensation
Stock-Based Compensation	Stockholder’ Equity
	Common Stock
	As of December 31, 2014, under the Company’s amended and restated certificate of incorporation, the Company is authorized to issue 200 million shares of common stock with a par value of $0.0001 per share.
	Preferred Stock
	As of December 31, 2014, under the Company’s amended and restated certificate of incorporation, the Company is authorized to issue 10 million shares of preferred stock with a par value of $0.0001 per share. The Board of Directors is authorized to provide for the issuance of one or more series of preferred stock and to establish the powers, preferences and rights of the preferred shares.
	Equity Plans
	In February 2011, the Company’s Board of Directors adopted the 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2011 Plan”), which became effective on the date of the Company’s initial public offering. The 2011 Plan provides for the issuance of incentive stock options, non-qualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted shares of the Company’s common stock and stock units to employees, directors and non-employees. The Board of Directors initially reserved 1,500,000 shares of common stock for future issuance under the 2011 Plan. In March 2014 and 2013, the Company reserved an additional 1,000,000 shares of common stock each year for future issuance under the 2011 Plan. As of December 31, 2014, there were 2,685,154 shares available for grant under the 2011 Plan.
	In August 2008, the Company’s Board of Directors adopted the 2008 Plan (the “2008 Plan”) which provided for the issuance of incentive stock options, non-qualified stock options, as well as the direct award or sale of shares of common stock to employees, directors and non-employees for up to 9,019,474 shares of common stock, as amended. No further awards have been made under the 2008 Plan; however, all awards outstanding under the 2008 Plan will continue to be governed by the existing terms.
	Under both the 2011 Plan and 2008 Plan, incentive stock options and non-qualified stock options are to be granted at a price that is not less than 100% of the fair value of the stock at the date of grant. Stock options granted to newly hired employees vest 25% on the first anniversary of the date of hire and ratably each month over the ensuing 36-month period. Stock options granted to existing employees generally vest ratably over the 48-months following the date of grant. Stock options are exercisable for a maximum period of 10 years after date of grant. Incentive stock options granted to stockholders who own more than 10% of the outstanding stock of the Company at the time of grant must be issued at an exercise price not to be less than 110% of the fair value of the stock on the date of grant. RSUs granted to newly hired employees vest 25% on the first Company-established vest date after the first anniversary of the employee’s date of hire and ratably each quarter over the ensuing 12-quarter period. RSUs granted to existing employees generally vest ratably each quarter over the 16 quarters following the date of grant. PBRSUs granted to employees may vest 25% on each anniversary of the grant date, provided that the average closing price per share of the Company’s common stock for any 90-calendar day period during the year preceding such anniversary date is equal to or greater than 1.25 times the Company’s stock price on the grant date or on the anniversary of the grant date. To the extent that a portion of the award does not vest on a specific anniversary date, it will remain eligible to vest in any of following three successive anniversaries of the grant date, provided that the market conditions have been satisfied at that time.
	A summary of the Company’s activity under its equity-settled award plans and related information is as follows (in thousands, except per share data):
					Options Outstanding
		Shares Available for Grant			Number of Shares			Weighted-Average Exercise Price			Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years	Aggregate Intrinsic Value
	Balance - December 31, 2013	2,451			4,089			$	9.91
	Shares authorized	1,000			—			—
	Options exercised	—			(623	)		5.08
	Options forfeited	202			(202	)		17.25
	Restricted stock units granted	(1,550	)		—			—
	Restricted stock units forfeited	257			—			—
	Restricted stock units withheld related to net share settlement of restricted stock units	325			—			—
	Balance - December 31, 2014	2,685			3,264			10.38			6.2	$	14,475
	Vested and exercisable - December 31, 2014				2,467			10.51			6.1	11,094
	Vested and expected to vest - December 31, 2014				3,176			10.4			6.2	14,078
	The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $7.0 million, $13.5 million and $23.8 million, respectively. The total fair value of stock options vested during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $6.2 million, $9.1 million and $8.5 million, respectively.
	Restricted Stock Units
	The summary of restricted stock unit activity, which includes PBRSUs, is as follows (in thousands, except for per share data):
		Number of Shares			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value				Aggregate Intrinsic Value
	Non-vested units - December 31, 2013	2,057			$	12.38
	Granted	1,550			14.54
	Vested	(890	)		13.6
	Forfeited	(257	)		13.85
	Non-vested units - December 31, 2014	2,460			13.15				$	33,896
	The total fair value of RSUs vested during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $13.7 million, $6.6 million and $1.6 million, respectively.
	In October 2013, the Board of Directors approved net-share settlement for tax withholdings on RSU vesting. In 2014 and 2013, the Company withheld issuing 325,292 and 45,338 shares of its common stock, respectively, based on the value of the RSUs on their vesting dates as determined by the Company’s closing common stock price. Total payments for the employees’ minimum tax obligations to taxing authorities were $4.9 million and $0.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and were recorded as a reduction to additional paid-in capital and reflected as a financing activity within the consolidated statements of cash flows. The net-share settlements reduced the number of shares that would have otherwise been issued on the vesting date and increased the number of shares reserved for future issuance under the 2011 Plan.
	Stock-Based Compensation Related to Employees and Directors
	The Company estimates the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The Company did not grant any stock options during the year ended December 31, 2014. The weighted-average assumptions used to estimate the fair value of stock options granted and the resulting fair values are as follows:
			Year Ended December 31,
			2013				2012
	Dividend yield		—		%		—		%
	Risk-free rate		0.93		%		1.11		%
	Expected volatility		61		%		61		%
	Expected term (in years)		6.1				6
	Grant date fair value		$	7.39			$	9.02
	The fair value of RSUs granted to employees and non-employee directors is measured by reference to the fair value of the underlying shares on the date of grant.
	PBRSUs contain both service and market conditions that affect the quantity of awards that will vest. During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company granted 200,000 and 175,000 PBRSUs, respectively. The Company did not grant any PBRSUs during the year ended December 31, 2012. The Company estimates the grant date fair value of the PBRSUs using the Monte Carlo simulation model. The weighted-average assumptions used to estimate the fair value of PBRSUs and the resulting fair values are as follows:
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014				2013
	Dividend yield		—				—
	Risk free rate		1.11		%		0.59		%
	Expected volatility		48		%		53		%
	Grant date fair value		$	7.47			$	6.39
	Stock-based compensation expense related to stock options granted to employees and non-employee directors was $5.4 million, $8.5 million and $7.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Stock-based compensation expense related to RSUs granted to employees and non-employee directors was $11.6 million, $6.9 million and $2.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Stock-based compensation expense related to PBRSUs granted to employees was $0.8 million, $0.4 million, and nil for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	As of December 31, 2014, there was $4.5 million and $29.5 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options and RSUs, including PBRSUs, respectively, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.5 years and 2.7 years, respectively. Future grants of equity awards will increase the amount of stock-based compensation expense to be recorded.
	Stock-Based Compensation Related to Non-Employees
	Stock-based compensation expense for non-employees is based on the fair value of the award on the measurement date, which is the earlier of the date by which the commitment for performance by the non-employee to earn the award is reached and the date on which the non-employee’s performance is complete. Each reporting period, the fair value of the unvested non-employee options or restricted stock units is revalued until the awards vest on the measurement date.
	Non-employee stock-based compensation expense related to stock options was nil, $0.2 million and $0.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Non-employee stock-based compensation expense related to RSUs was nil, $0.2 million and $0.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	Income before income tax provision consists of the following (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Domestic	$	64,238		$	64,281		$	61,983
	International	44			14			86
	Total income before income tax provision	$	64,282		$	64,295		$	62,069
	The components of the provision for income taxes are as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Current:
	Federal	$	(26,517	)	$	(17,145	)	$	(17,525	)
	State	(3,031		)	(1,188		)	(643		)
	Foreign	(9,611		)	(8,220		)	(3,737		)
	Total current provision for income taxes	(39,159		)	(26,553		)	(21,905		)
	Deferred:
	Federal	13,668			2,920			(450		)
	State	550			121			(757		)
	Total deferred provision for income taxes	14,218			3,041			(1,207		)
	Total provision for income taxes	$	(24,941	)	$	(23,512	)	$	(23,112	)
	Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) consist of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Deferred revenue	$	2,779		$	1,850
	Reserves and other	2,319			2,073
	Stock-based compensation	5,963			5,200
	Total deferred tax assets	11,061			9,123
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Depreciation and amortization	(6,568		)	(16,960		)
	Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)	$	4,493		$	(7,837	)
	The following is a reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax to the Company’s effective tax (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Tax at statutory federal rate	$	(22,498	)	$	(22,503	)	$	(21,721	)
	State tax – net of federal benefit	(1,678		)	(655		)	(928		)
	Permanent differences	(879		)	(569		)	(644		)
	Foreign tax	(9,576		)	(8,214		)	(3,737		)
	Foreign tax credits	9,576			8,216			3,652
	Foreign income not taxed at federal rate	(3		)	1			30
	Other	117			212			236
	Total provision for income taxes	$	(24,941	)	$	(23,512	)	$	(23,112	)
	In assessing the realization of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more-likely-than-not that some portion or all of deferred assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of the deferred tax asset is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Based on the available objective evidence as of December 31, 2014, management believes it is more-likely-than-not that the U.S. net deferred tax asset will be fully realized. Accordingly, management has not applied a valuation allowance against its net deferred tax assets.
	As of December 31, 2013, the Company had state net operating loss carryforwards of $2.0 million available to reduce future taxable income which were fully utilized during 2014.
	Internal Revenue Code Section 382 places a limitation (the Section 382 Limitation) on the amount of taxable income that can be offset by net operating loss carryforwards after a change in control (generally greater than 50% change in ownership) of a loss corporation. California has similar rules. Generally, after a change in control, a loss corporation cannot deduct operating loss carryforwards in excess of the Section 382 Limitation. Management has considered the impact of such limitation in determining the utilization of its operating loss carryforwards against taxable income in future periods.
	Deferred tax liabilities have not been recognized for undistributed earnings for foreign subsidiaries because it is management’s intention to indefinitely reinvest such undistributed earnings outside the U.S. Generally, such earnings are subject to potential foreign withholding tax and the U.S. tax upon remittance of dividends and under certain other circumstances. The Company believes that the the potential liability would be immaterial.
	Uncertain Tax Positions
	As of December 31, 2014, the Company’s total amount of unrecognized tax benefits was $3.7 million, all of which would impact the Company’s effective tax rate, if recognized.
	The following table summarizes the activity related to the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Balance as of January 1,	$	2,036		$	1,136		$	369
	Gross increase related to current period tax positions	1,672			1,043			767
	Gross decrease related to prior period tax positions	(1		)	(143		)	—
	Balance as of December 31,	$	3,707		$	2,036		$	1,136
	The Company does not believe it is reasonably possible that its unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change within the next twelve months.
	The Company’s policy is to recognize interest and penalties accrued on any unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized $0.7 million, $0.1 million, and $0.1 million, respectively, of interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits.
	The Company’s 2010 tax year is currently under examination by the State of California Franchise Tax Board. The Company does not expect a material impact on its consolidated financial statements as a result of this examination. The 2011 through 2013 tax periods remain open to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and the 2010 through 2013 tax periods remain open to examination by most state tax authorities. For the Company's foreign jurisdictions, the 2009 through 2013 tax years remain open to examination by their respective tax authorities.

RelatedParty_Transactions

Related-Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related-Party Transactions
Related Party Transactions	Related-Party Transactions
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, five members of the Company’s Board of Directors also served on the boards of directors of RPX clients. During the year ended December 31, 2013, four members of the Company’s Board of Directors also served on the boards of directors of RPX clients. During the year ended December 31, 2012, two members of the Company’s Board of Directors also served on the board of directors of an RPX client. The Company recognized subscription revenue from these clients in the amount of $9.4 million, $5.1 million and $3.6 million during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. There were $0.1 million and $4.4 million of receivables due from these clients as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Employee_Savings_Plan

Employee Savings Plan	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Employee Savings Plan [Abstract]
Employee Savings Plan
		Employee Savings Plan
	The Company has a savings plan, which qualifies under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Plan”), available for its employees in the United States who meet the Plan’s age and service requirements. Employees are eligible to participate in the Plan in the month following their 3-month anniversary with the Company. Under the terms of the Plan, employees may make voluntary contributions up to maximum statutory limits. The Company elected to contribute a discretionary match of one dollar for each dollar contributed, with a maximum employer contribution for each United States employee of $5,000 and $2,500 for the years ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. The Company recorded contribution expense of $0.4 million and $0.2 million during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Segment_Reporting

Segment Reporting	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting
Segment Reporting	Segment Reporting
	Operating segments are components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available. Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker, or decision-making group, in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The Company’s chief operating decision maker is its Chief Executive Officer. The Company’s Chief Executive Office reviews financial information presented on a consolidated basis and, as a result, the Company concluded that there is only one operating and reportable segment.
	The Company markets its solution to companies around the world. Revenue is generally attributed to geographic areas based on the country in which the client is domiciled.
	The following table presents revenue by location and revenue generated by country as a percentage of total revenue for the applicable period, for countries representing 10% or more of revenues for the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
	United States	$	166,593	64	%	$	145,310	61	%	$	111,419	56	%
	Japan	36,849		14		39,465		17		40,484		20
	Other	55,893		22		52,729		22		45,785		24
	Total revenue	$	259,335	100	%	$	237,504	100	%	$	197,688	100	%
	Long-lived assets information by location is presented below (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013
	United States	$	4,137	$	4,646
	Japan	14		21
	Total long-lived assets	$	4,151	$	4,667

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_I

Selected Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Selected Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)	Selected Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
	Summarized quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 is as follows (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended
		March 31,		June 30,			September 30,			December 31,
		2014		2014			2014			2014
	Revenue	$	61,888	$	64,293		$	65,407		$	67,747
	Cost of revenue	28,920		31,542			30,444			33,529
	Selling, general and administrative expenses	17,255		18,579			17,786			18,059
	Loss on sale of patent assets	—		(699		)	(8		)	—
	Operating income	15,713		14,871			17,185			16,159
	Other income, net	99		94			73			88
	Income before provision for income taxes	15,812		14,965			17,258			16,247
	Provision for income taxes	5,952		5,566			6,425			6,998
	Net income	$	9,860	$	9,399		$	10,833		$	9,249
	Net income available to common stockholders:
	Basic	$	9,860	$	9,399		$	10,833		$	9,249
	Diluted	$	9,860	$	9,399		$	10,833		$	9,249
	Net income available to common stockholders per common share(1):
	Basic	$	0.19	$	0.18		$	0.2		$	0.17
	Diluted	$	0.18	$	0.17		$	0.2		$	0.17
	Other Data:
	Deferred revenue, including current portion	$	140,534	$	131,207		$	112,820		$	136,209
	Stock-based compensation expense	$	3,803	$	5,065		$	4,486		$	4,302
		Three Months Ended
		March 31,		June 30,			September 30,			December 31,
		2013		2013			2013			2013
	Revenue	$	61,194	$	57,481		$	58,554		$	60,275
	Cost of revenue	23,670		24,694			29,766			32,641
	Selling, general and administrative expenses	14,473		15,736			15,584			16,732
	(Gain) on sale of patent assets	—		126			—			—
	Operating income	23,051		16,925			13,204			10,902
	Other income (expense), net	51		63			56			43
	Income before provision for income taxes	23,102		16,988			13,260			10,945
	Provision for income taxes	8,407		6,291			4,863			3,951
	Net income	$	14,695	$	10,697		$	8,397		$	6,994
	Net income available to common stockholders:
	Basic	$	14,678	$	10,691		$	8,395		$	6,994
	Diluted	$	14,678	$	10,691		$	8,395		$	6,994
	Net income available to common stockholders per common share(1):
	Basic	$	0.29	$	0.21		$	0.16		$	0.13
	Diluted	$	0.28	$	0.2		$	0.16		$	0.13
	Other Data:
	Deferred revenue, including current portion	$	118,177	$	117,573		$	105,230		$	137,743
	Stock-based compensation expense	$	3,708	$	4,478		$	3,895		$	4,033
	(1) Basic and diluted earnings per share are computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of quarterly basic and diluted per share information may not equal annual basic and diluted earnings per share.

Subsequent_Events_Notes

Subsequent Events (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Subsequent Events
	On December 22, 2014, the Company and RPX Clearinghouse LLC (a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company) entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement by and among Rockstar Consortium US LP, Rockstar Consortium LLC, Bockstar Technologies LLC, Constellation Technologies LLC, MobileStar Technologies LLC, and NetStar Technologies LLC (the “Sellers”), for the purchase of substantially all of the patent assets owned or controlled by the Sellers (the “Rockstar Transaction”), as well as other ancillary agreements, including but not limited to an Escrow Agreement by and among the Sellers, Citibank, N.A., acting as escrow agent, RPX Clearinghouse LLC and the Company (the “Escrow Agreement”). RPX Clearinghouse LLC paid the Sellers $25.0 million as a non-refundable deposit on December 26, 2014 upon the execution of the Asset Purchase Agreement, which is reflected on the consolidated balance sheet in other assets. The third-party funding commitments described below were delivered pursuant with the Escrow Agreement and the remaining closing conditions under the Asset Purchase Agreement were met on January 28, 2015 on which date the Rockstar Transaction was consummated and the Sellers received an additional payment of $875.0 million from escrow.
	RPX Clearinghouse LLC received funding commitments for the Rockstar Transaction from a syndicate of more than 30 companies including a contribution of approximately $29.0 million from the Company which was recorded as a patent asset upon closing of the Rockstar Transaction and will be amortized over its estimated economic useful life of 60 months. Also upon the closing of the Rockstar Transaction, syndicate participants received non-exclusive licenses to the patent assets included in the Rockstar Transaction, and RPX Clearinghouse made the patent assets available for license to all other interested companies under fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory terms.
	On February 10, 2015, the Company announced that its Board of Directors has authorized a share repurchase program under which the Company is authorized to repurchase up to $75.0 million of its outstanding common stock. The Company’s share repurchase program does not obligate it to acquire any specific number of shares.

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign1

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation
	These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”) and include the accounts of RPX and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, contingent assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period covered by the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. The Company bases its estimates on various factors and information which may include, but are not limited to, history and prior experience, expected future results, new related events and current economic conditions, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
	Significant estimates and assumptions made by management include the determination of:
	•	the estimated economic useful lives of patent assets;
	•	the determination of a best estimated selling price of a subscription to the Company’s patent risk management solution and its insurance offering;
	•	the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed for business combinations;
	•	recognition and measurement of current and deferred income taxes and uncertain tax positions;
	•	the fair value of stock awards issued; and
	•	the estimated reserves for known and incurred but not reported claims.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition
	The Company recognizes revenue in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 605, Revenue Recognition (“ASC 605”) and related authoritative guidance. The primary source of the Company’s revenue is fees paid by its clients under subscription agreements. The Company believes the subscription component of its patent risk management solution comprises a single deliverable. The Company recognizes each subscription fee ratably over the period for which the fee applies. Revenue is recognized net of any discounts or other contractual incentives. The Company starts recognizing revenue when all of the following criteria have been met:
	•	Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists. All subscription fees are supported by an executed subscription agreement.
	•	Delivery has occurred or services have been rendered. The subscription agreement calls for the Company to provide its patent risk management solution over a specific term commencing on the agreement effective date. Because services are not on an individualized basis (i.e., the Company generally performs its services on behalf of all of its clients as opposed to each client individually), delivery occurs automatically with the passage of time. Consequently, the Company recognizes subscription revenue ratably.
	•	Seller’s price to the buyer is fixed or determinable. Each client’s annual subscription fee is typically based on the Company’s rate card in effect at the time of the client’s initial agreement. A client’s subscription fee is generally determined using the applicable rate card and its normalized operating income, which is defined as the greater of (i) the average of its operating income for the three most recently reported fiscal years and (ii) 5% of its revenue for the most recently reported fiscal year. The fee for the first year of the agreement is typically determined and invoiced at the time of contract execution. The fee for each subsequent year of the agreement is generally calculated and invoiced in advance prior to each anniversary date of the agreement.
	•	Collectability is reasonably assured. Subscription fees are generally collected on or near the effective date of the agreement and again at or near each anniversary date thereof. The Company does not recognize revenue in instances where collectability is not reasonably assured. Generally, the Company’s subscription agreements state that all fees paid are non-refundable.
	In some limited instances, the subscription agreement includes a contingency clause, giving one or both parties an option to terminate the agreement and receive a full refund if contingencies are not resolved within a defined time period. In those instances, revenue will not be recognized until the contingency has been satisfied. The revenue earned during the period between the effective date of the agreement and the contingency removal date is recognized on the contingency removal date. Thereafter, revenue is recognized ratably over the remaining subscription term.
	The Company’s clients generally receive a term license to, and a release from all prior damages associated with, patent assets in the Company’s portfolio. The term license to each patent asset typically converts to a perpetual license at the end of a contractually specified vesting period, provided that the client is a member at such time. The Company does not view the conversion from term license to perpetual license to be a separate deliverable in its arrangements with its clients because the utility of, access to and freedom to practice the inventions covered by the patent asset is no different between a term and perpetual license.
	In some instances, the Company accepts a payment from a client to finance part or all of an acquisition. The Company refers to such transactions as syndicated acquisitions. The accounting for syndicated acquisitions can be complex and often requires judgments on the part of management as to the appropriate accounting treatment. In accordance with ASC 605-45, Revenue Recognition: Principal Agent Considerations, in instances where the Company substantively acts as an agent to acquire patent rights from a seller on behalf of clients who are paying for such rights separately from their subscription agreements, the Company may treat the client payments on a net basis. When treated on a net basis, there may be little or no revenue recognized for such contributions, and the basis of the acquired patent rights may exclude the amounts paid by the contributing client based on the Company’s determination that it is not the principal in these transactions. In these situations, where the Company substantively acts as an agent, the contributing clients are typically defendants in an active or threatened patent infringement litigation filed by the owner of a patent. The Company’s involvement is to assist its clients to secure a dismissal from litigation and a license to the underlying patents.
	Key indicators evaluated to reach the determination that the Company is not the principal in the transaction include, among others:
	•	the seller of the patent assets is generally viewed as the primary obligor in the arrangement, given that it owns and controls the underlying patent(s) and thus has the absolute authority to grant and deliver any release from past damages and dismissal from litigation, as well the general terms of the license granted;
	•	the Company has no inventory risk, as the clients generally enter into their contractual obligations with the Company prior to or contemporaneous to the Company entering into a contractual obligation with the seller;
	•	the Company generally has limited pricing latitude as client contributions are based on the sales price set by the seller;
	•	the Company is not involved in the determination of the product or service specification and has no ability to change the product or perform any part of the service in connection with these transactions, as the seller owns the underlying patent(s); and
	•	the Company has limited or no credit risk, as each respective client has a contractually binding obligation, such clients are generally of high credit quality and in many instances, the Company collects the client contribution prior to making a payment to the seller.
	In certain syndicated transactions, the Company may recognize revenue upon the sale of licenses to specific patent assets and/or upon completion of the rendering of advisory services.
	Revenue recognition for arrangements with multiple deliverables. A multiple-element arrangement may include the sale of a subscription to the Company’s patent risk management solution and an insurance policy to cover certain costs associated with patent infringement lawsuits by NPEs, each of which are individually considered separate units of accounting. Each element within a multiple-element arrangement is accounted for as a separate unit of accounting given that the delivered products have value to the customer on a standalone basis. The Company considers a deliverable to have standalone value if the product or service is sold separately by itself or another vendor. The delivery of insurance coverage is not dependent on a client’s subscription to the Company’s patent risk management solution. While the Company believes its insurance product offering is unique, its clients are able to purchase insurance coverage as a standalone product from other providers. The Company sells the components of its patent risk management solution on a standalone basis.
	The Company has determined its best estimate of selling price (“BESP”) for a subscription to our patent risk management solution based on the following:
	•	List price, which represents the rates listed on its annual rate card. The Company publishes a standard rate card annually. Each client’s subscription fee is typically calculated using its applicable rate card and its normalized operating income, which is defined as the greater of (i) 5% of the client’s most recently reported fiscal year’s revenue, and (ii) the average of the three most recently reported fiscal years’ operating income of the client. Each client’s annual subscription fee is reset annually based on its revenue and operating income for its most recently completed fiscal years.
	The Company has determined its BESP for its insurance product based on the following:
	•	Actuarially determined factors. Although the Company sells its insurance product both on a standalone basis and as a component of a multiple-element arrangement, the pricing is not affected by the subscription to our patent risk management solution. The Company uses an actuarial model that calculates an individual client’s insurance premium based on its projected annual frequency (i.e., number of claims during the policy term) and severity (i.e., the amount which it expects to settle a claim).
Accounting fo Payments to Clients	Accounting for Payments to Clients
	The Company occasionally agrees to provide payments, discounts or other contractual incentives to clients in exchange for specified consideration. The Company accounts for such contract provisions in accordance with ASC 605-50, Revenue Recognition: Customer Payments and Incentives, which requires the Company to offset the amount of the payment, discount or other contractual incentive against revenue if the Company is unable to demonstrate both receipt of an identifiable benefit and determine the fair value of the benefit received.
Deferred Revenue	Deferred Revenue
	The Company generally invoices its clients upon execution of a new agreement and prior to any anniversary date for existing agreements. The Company records the amount of fees billed as deferred revenue and recognizes such amounts as revenue ratably over the period for which they apply. The Company generally records deferred revenue when it has the legal right to bill amounts owed and the applicable service period has commenced. In the rare instance where a term has commenced but the fees have not yet been invoiced, the Company records an unbilled receivable. Deferred revenue that will be recognized during the succeeding 12-month period from the respective balance sheet date is recorded as deferred revenue, current, and the remaining portion is recorded as non-current.
Accounts Receivable	Accounts Receivable
	Accounts receivable primarily includes amounts billed to clients under their subscription agreements. The majority of the Company’s clients are well-established operating companies with investment-grade credit. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company has not incurred any losses on its accounts receivable. Based upon its historical collections experience and specific client information, the Company has determined that no allowance for doubtful accounts was required at either December 31, 2014 or 2013.
Concentration of Risk	Concentration of Risk
	The Company is subject to concentrations of credit risk principally attributable to cash, cash equivalents, investments, accounts receivable and other receivables. The Company’s non-restricted cash balances deposited in U.S. banks are non-interest bearing and are insured up to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) limits. Cash equivalents primarily consist of institutional money market funds, U.S. government and agency securities, municipal bonds and commercial paper denominated primarily in U.S. dollars. Investment policies have been implemented that limit purchases of debt securities to investment-grade securities.
	Credit risk with respect to accounts and other receivables is generally mitigated by short collection periods and/or subscription agreements that provide for payments in advance of the rendering of services. Three clients individually accounted for 28%, 24%, and 14% of accounts receivable at December 31, 2014. Four clients individually accounted for 18%, 16%, 13% and 11% of accounts receivable at December 31, 2013. No client accounted for more than 10% of subscription fee revenue in any of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 or 2012.
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements
	The Company applies fair value accounting for all financial assets and liabilities and non-financial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis. The Company defines fair value as the price that would be received from selling an asset or that would be paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. When determining the fair value measurements for assets and liabilities, which are required to be recorded at fair value, the Company considers the principal or most advantageous market in which the Company would transact and the market-based risk measurements or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, such as risks inherent in valuation techniques, transfer restrictions and credit risk. Fair value is estimated by applying the following hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value into three levels and bases the categorization within the hierarchy upon the lowest level of input that is available and significant to the fair value measurement:
	Level 1 – Valuations based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and readily accessible by the Company at the reporting date.
	Level 2 – Valuations based on inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for assets or liabilities, either directly or indirectly through market corroboration, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument.
	Level 3 – Valuations based on inputs that are unobservable.
	The carrying amounts of the Company’s financial instruments, which include cash equivalents, investments, accounts receivable, other receivables and accounts payable, approximate their fair values due to their short maturities. Based on borrowing rates currently available to the Company for notes payable and other deferred payment obligations with similar terms, and considering the Company’s credit risk, the carrying value of deferred payment obligations approximates fair value.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	The Company’s cash and cash equivalents principally consist of commercial paper, institutional money market funds, U.S. government and agency securities and municipal bonds denominated primarily in U.S. dollars. Cash equivalents are highly liquid, short-term investments having an original maturity of 90 days or less that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash.
Short-Term Investments	Short-Term Investments
	The Company holds short-term investments in municipal and corporate bonds maturing between 90 days and 12 months, commercial paper and U.S. government and agency securities. The Company considers its investments as available to support current operations. As a result, the Company classifies its investments, including those with stated maturities beyond twelve months, as current assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company classifies these securities as “available-for-sale” and carries them at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. Unrealized gains or losses are recorded, net of estimated taxes, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), a component of stockholders’ equity. Realized gains and losses are recognized upon sale. The specific identification method is used to determine the cost basis of fixed income securities sold.
	The Company periodically evaluates its investments for impairment due to declines in market value considered to be “other-than-temporary.” This evaluation consists of several qualitative and quantitative factors, including the Company’s ability and intent to hold the investment until a forecasted recovery occurs, as well as any decline in the investment quality of the security and the severity and duration of the unrealized loss. In the event of a determination that a decline in market value is other-than-temporary, the Company will recognize an impairment loss, and a new cost basis in the investment will be established. To date, the Company has not recorded any impairment related to its investments in its consolidated statements of operations.
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment, Net
	Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using a straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, which is generally three to five years. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred, and improvements and betterments are capitalized. When assets are retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the consolidated balance sheet and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in the consolidated statement of operations in the period realized. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease, or the useful life of the assets, whichever is shorter.
Internal-Use Software and Website Development Costs	Internal-Use Software and Website Development Costs
	The Company capitalizes development costs related to internal-use software and its website and records such amounts as property and equipment, net, on its consolidated balance sheets. These costs include personnel and personnel-related expenses and consultant fees incurred during the application development stages of the project. Costs related to preliminary project activities, minor enhancement and maintenance, and post implementation activities are expensed as incurred. Internal-use software is amortized on a straight-line basis over its useful life, which is generally three years, beginning on the date the software is placed into service. Management evaluates the useful lives of these assets on an annual basis and tests for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances occur that could impact the recoverability of these assets.
	During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company capitalized $1.2 million, $1.2 million, and $1.9 million, respectively, of internal-use software and website development costs. Amortization of internal-use software was $1.3 million, $1.1 million, $0.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Patent Assets, Net	Patent Assets, Net
	The Company generally acquires patent assets from third parties using cash and contractually deferred payments. Patent assets are recorded at fair value at acquisition. The fair value of the assets acquired is generally based on the fair value of the consideration exchanged. The asset value includes the cost of legal and other fees associated with the acquisition of the assets. Costs incurred to maintain and prosecute patents and patent applications are expensed as incurred.
	Because each client generally receives a license to the majority of the Company’s patent assets, the Company is unable to reliably determine the pattern over which its patent assets are consumed. As a result, the Company amortizes each patent asset on a straight-line basis. The amortization period is equal to the asset’s estimated economic useful life. Estimating the economic useful life of patent assets requires significant management judgment. The Company considers various factors in estimating the economic useful lives of its patent assets, including the remaining statutory life of the underlying patents, the applicability of the assets to future clients, the vesting period for current clients to obtain perpetual licenses to such patent assets, any contractual commitments by clients that are related to such patent assets, its estimate of the period of time during which the Company may sign subscription agreements with prospective clients that may find relevance in the patent assets, and the remaining contractual term of the Company’s existing clients at the time of acquisition. In certain instances, where the Company acquires patent assets and secures related client committed cash flows that extend beyond the statutory life of the underlying patent assets, the useful life may extend beyond the statutory life of the patent assets. As of December 31, 2014, the estimated economic useful life of the Company’s patent assets generally ranged from 24 to 60 months. The weighted-average estimated economic useful life of patent assets acquired since inception was 45 months. The weighted-average estimated economic useful life of patent assets acquired during the year ended December 31, 2014 was 39 months. The Company periodically evaluates whether events and circumstances have occurred that may warrant a revision to the remaining estimated useful life of its patent assets.
	In instances where the Company sells patent assets, the amount of consideration received is compared to the asset’s carrying value to determine and recognize a gain or loss.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
	The Company assesses the recoverability of its long-lived assets, which includes patent assets, other intangible assets and property and equipment, when events or changes in circumstances indicate their carrying value may not be recoverable. Such events or changes in circumstances may include: a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which a long-lived asset is being used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate that could affect the value of a long-lived asset, an accumulation of costs significantly in excess of the amount originally expected for the acquisition or development of a long-lived asset, current or future operating or cash flow losses that demonstrate continuing losses associated with the use of a long-lived asset or a current expectation that, more-likely-than-not, a long-lived asset will be sold or otherwise disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life. The Company licenses a majority of the portfolio of patent assets to all of its membership clients and thus views these assets as a single asset group. The Company assesses recoverability of a long-lived asset by determining whether the carrying value of these assets can be recovered through projected undiscounted cash flows. If the carrying value of the assets exceeds the forecasted undiscounted cash flows, an impairment loss is recognized, and is recorded as the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value. An impairment loss is charged to operations in the period in which management determines such impairment. To date, there have been no impairments of long-lived assets identified.
Goodwill	Goodwill
	The Company reviews goodwill for impairment at least annually on September 30th or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of goodwill may not be recoverable. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company elected to first assess the qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of its single reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment under ASC Topic 350, Intangibles - Goodwill & Other (“ASC Topic 350”). This qualitative assessment evaluated factors including, but not limited to, economic market and industry conditions, cost factors and the overall financial performance of the Company. No impairment charges were recorded as a result of the Company’s 2014 and 2013 annual impairment analysis.
	If the Company were to determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of its single reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then the two-step goodwill impairment test is performed. The first step in identifying a potential impairment compares the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount. If the carrying amount exceeds its fair value, the second step would need to be performed; otherwise, no further step is required. The second step, measuring the impairment loss, compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. Any excess of the goodwill carrying amount over the implied fair value is recognized as an impairment charge, and the carrying value of goodwill is written down to fair value.
Intangible Assets, Net	Intangible Assets, Net
	Intangible assets, net primarily consists of intangible assets acquired from other companies as a result of acquisitions. Such assets are capitalized and amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Intangible assets, net excludes patent related intangible assets, which are recorded within patent assets, net in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Advertising Costs	Advertising Costs
	The Company expenses advertising costs as they are incurred. Advertising expenses were not material for any of the periods presented.
Foreign Currency Accounting	Foreign Currency Accounting
	The functional currency of the Company’s international subsidiaries is the U.S. dollar. Monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured using the current exchange rate at the balance sheet date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities and capital accounts are reflected using historical exchange rates. Expenses are remeasured using the average exchange rates in effect during the period. Foreign currency exchange gains and losses, which have not been material for any periods presented, are included in the consolidated statements of operations within other income, net.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	The Company accounts for income taxes using an asset and liability approach, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets or liabilities for the tax-effected temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of its assets and liabilities and for net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The measurement of deferred tax assets is reduced, if necessary, by the amount of any tax benefits that, based on available evidence, are not expected to be realized.
	The Company assesses the likelihood that its deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income, and to the extent the Company believes that recovery is not likely, the Company establishes a valuation allowance. Judgment is required in determining the Company’s provision for income taxes, deferred tax assets and liabilities, and any valuation allowance recorded against the net deferred tax assets. The Company did not apply a valuation allowance against its deferred tax balances at December 31, 2014 or 2013.
	The calculation of the Company’s tax liabilities involves dealing with uncertainties in the application of complex tax laws and regulations in a multitude of jurisdictions across its global operations. ASC 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”) provides that a tax benefit from an uncertain tax position may be recognized when it is more-likely-than-not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, on the basis of the technical merits. ASC 740 also provides guidance on measurement, derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition.
	The Company recognizes tax liabilities in accordance with ASC 740 and adjusts these liabilities when its judgment changes as a result of the evaluation of new information not previously available. Because of the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from its current estimate of the tax liabilities. These differences will be reflected as increases or decreases to income tax expense in the period in which new information is available.
	The tax expense or benefit for extraordinary items, unusual or infrequently occurring items and items that do not represent a tax effect of current-year ordinary income are treated as discrete items and recorded in the interim period in which the events occur.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation
	The Company accounts for stock-based compensation for equity-settled awards issued to employees and directors under ASC 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation (“ASC 718”). ASC 718 requires that stock-based compensation expense for equity-settled awards made to employees and directors be measured based on the estimated grant date fair value and recognized over the requisite service period. These equity-settled awards include stock options, restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and performance-based RSUs with a market condition (“PBRSUs”).
	The fair value of stock options is estimated as of the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The fair value of RSUs is estimated based on the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. For stock options and RSUs, the fair value of award that is expected to vest is recognized as compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Because stock-based compensation expense is based on awards ultimately expected to vest, it reflects estimated forfeitures. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from initial estimates. Previously recognized expense is reversed for the portion of awards forfeited prior to vesting.
	The fair value of PBRSUs is estimated as of the date of grant using the Monte-Carlo simulation model. For PBRSUs, stock-based compensation expense is recognized over the derived service period for each tranche (or market condition). Because the Company’s PBRSUs have multiple derived service periods, it uses the graded-vesting attribution method. The graded vesting attribution method requires a company to recognize compensation expense over the requisite service period for each vesting tranche of the award as though the award were, in substance, multiple awards. The compensation expense for these awards will only be reversible if the employee terminates prior to completing the requisite service periods for these awards (i.e., compensation expense will not be reversed if the market condition is not met).
	Estimates of the fair value of equity-settled awards as of the grant date using valuation models, such as the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and a Monte-Carlo simulation model, are affected by assumptions regarding a number of complex variables. Changes in the assumptions can materially affect the fair value and ultimately how much stock-based compensation expense is recognized. These inputs are subjective and generally require significant analysis and judgment to develop. For all stock options granted to date, the Company calculated the expected term using the SEC simplified method. The Company has limited information on its past volatility and has a limited operating history. Therefore, it has estimated the volatility data based on a study of publicly traded industry peer companies. For purposes of identifying these peer companies, the Company considered the industry, stage of development, size and financial leverage of potential comparable companies. As of the second quarter of 2014, the Company no longer calculates expected term using the SEC simplified method and began to calculate its expected term. The Company has not granted any stock options since making the change. The risk-free interest rate is based on the yield available on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues similar in duration to the expected term of the equity-settled award.
	The Company accounts for stock-based compensation for equity-settled awards issued to non-employees in exchange for goods and services under ASC 505-50, Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees (“ASC 505-50”). ASC 505-50 requires that equity-settled awards issued to non-employees be measured at the fair value as of the date at which either the commitment for performance by the non-employee to earn the award is reached or the date the non-employee’s performance is complete. Until that point is reached, the award must be revalued at each reporting period with the true-up to expense recorded in the then current period earnings. The value of the award is recognized as an expense over the requisite service period.
Business Combinations	Business Combinations
	The Company applies the provisions of ASC 805, Business Combinations (“ASC 805”), in the accounting for its business acquisitions. ASC 805 requires companies to recognize goodwill separately from the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, which are valued at their acquisition date fair values. Goodwill as of the acquisition date represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed.
	The Company uses significant estimates and assumptions, including fair value estimates, to determine fair value of assets acquired, liabilities assumed and, when applicable, the related useful lives of the acquired assets, as of the business combination date. When those estimates are provisional, the Company refines them as necessary during the measurement period. The measurement period is the period after the acquisition date, not to exceed one year, in which the Company may gather new information about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date to adjust the provisional amounts recognized. Measurement period adjustments are applied retrospectively, if material. All other adjustments are recorded to the consolidated statements of operations.
Reserves for Known and Incurred but not Reported Claims	Reserves for Known and Incurred but not Reported Claims
	Reserves for known and incurred but not reported claims represent estimated claims costs and related expenses for patent infringement liability insurance policies in effect. Reserves for known claims are established based on individual case estimates. The Company uses actuarial models and techniques to estimate the reserve for incurred but not reported claims.
	Loss expense for known and incurred but not reported claims are charged to earnings after deducting recoverable amounts under the Company’s reinsurance contract.
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards	Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
	In November 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2014-17, Business Combinations (Topic 805) – Pushdown Accounting ("ASU 2014-17"). The primary purpose of the ASU is to provide guidance on whether and at what threshold an acquired entity that is a business or nonprofit activity can apply pushdown accounting in its separate financial statements. The amendments should reduce diversity in the timing and content of footnote disclosure. ASU 2014-17 is effective after November 18, 2014. The Company does not believe that this guidance will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
	In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity's Ability to Continue as a Going Concern ("ASU 2014-15") provides new guidance related to management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern by incorporating and expanding upon certain principles that are currently in U.S. auditing standards and to provide related footnote disclosures. This new guidance is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter; early adoption is permitted. The requirements of ASU 2014-15 are not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
	In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period (“ASU 2014-12”), which amends Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718) in the Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”). ASU 2014-12 requires that a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition. A reporting entity should apply existing guidance in Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718) as it relates to awards with performance conditions that affect vesting to account for such awards. The amendments in ASU 2014-12 will be effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and early adoption is permitted. The adoption of ASU 2014-12 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (“ASU 2014-09”), which will supersede most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) once it becomes effective. ASU 2014-09 requires an entity to recognize revenues when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration that is expected to be received for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 defines a five-step process to achieve this core principle and, in doing so, it is possible more judgment and estimates may be required within the revenue recognition process than required under existing U.S. GAAP including identifying performance obligations in the contract, estimating the amount of variable consideration to include in the transaction price and allocating the transaction price to each separate performance obligation. ASU 2014-09 will be effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of ASU 2014-12 on its consolidated financial statements.
	In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant and Equipment (Topic 360) (“ASU 2014-08”), which amends the requirements for reporting discontinued operations and enhances disclosure requirements. The amendments in ASU 2014-08 will be effective for all disposals (or classifications as held for sale) of components of an entity beginning on or after December 15, 2014 and early adoption is permitted. The adoption of ASU 2014-08 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
	In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-02, Reporting of Amounts of Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (“ASU 2013-02”), which amends Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) in the ASC. These amendments require an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. In addition, an entity is required to present significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income. The amendments in ASU 2013-02 are effective for the Company’s interim and annual fiscal periods that began January 1, 2013. The adoption of ASU 2013-02 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Net_Income_Available_to_Common1

Net Income Available to Common Stockholders (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Net Income Available to Common Stockholders
Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Share Available To Common Stockholders	The following table presents the calculation of basic and diluted net income per share available to common stockholders (in thousands, except for per share data):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Net income available to common stockholders:
	Numerator:
	Basic:
	Net income	$	39,341		$	40,783		$	38,957
	Allocation of net income to participating stockholders	—			(20		)	(502		)
	Net income available to common stockholders – basic	$	39,341		$	40,763		$	38,455
	Diluted:
	Net income available to common stockholders – basic	$	39,341		$	40,763		$	38,455
	Undistributed earnings re-allocated to common stockholders	—			—			19
	Net income available to common stockholders – diluted	$	39,341		$	40,763		$	38,474
	Denominator:
	Basic shares:
	Weighted-average shares used in computing basic net income available to common stockholders	53,444			51,956			49,766
	Diluted shares:
	Weighted-average shares used in computing basic net income available to common stockholders	53,444			51,956			49,766
	Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock units using treasury-stock method	1,374			1,696			2,036
	Weighted-average shares used in computing diluted net income available to common stockholders	54,818			53,652			51,802
	Net income per common share available to common stockholders:
	Basic	$	0.74		$	0.78		$	0.77
	Diluted	$	0.72		$	0.76		$	0.74
Anti-Dilutive Securities Not Included In Diluted Shares Outstanding Calculation	For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 the following securities were not included in the calculation of diluted shares outstanding, as the effect would have been anti-dilutive (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013			2012
	Weighted-average:
	Stock options outstanding	767		1,215			2,672
	Restricted stock units outstanding	100		127			395
	Shares of common stock subject to repurchase	—		25			649

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Measurements
Finance Assets Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis	The following tables present the financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		December 31, 2014
		Fair Value		Level 1		Level 2
	Cash equivalents:
	Commercial paper	$	5,749	$	—	$	5,749
	U.S. government and agency securities	2,000		—		2,000
	Money market funds	451		451		—
	Municipal bonds	1,409		—		1,409
		$	9,609	$	451	$	9,158
	Short-term investments:
	Municipal bonds	$	120,282	$	—	$	120,282
	Commercial paper	2,498		—		2,498
	Corporate bonds	68,672		—		68,672
	U.S. government and agency securities	48,062		—		48,062
		$	239,514	$	—	$	239,514
		December 31, 2013
		Fair Value		Level 1		Level 2
	Cash equivalents:
	Commercial paper	$	34,498	$	—	$	34,498
	Money market funds	37		37		—
	U.S. government and agency securities	3,801		—		3,801
		$	38,336	$	37	$	38,299
	Short-term investments:
	Municipal bonds	$	146,100	$	—	$	146,100
	Commercial paper	31,597		—		31,597
	Corporate bonds	7,875		—		7,875
	U.S. government and agency securities	4,995		—		4,995
		$	190,567	$	—	$	190,567

Shortterm_Investments_Tables

Short-term Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Short-term Investment [Abstract]
Summary Of Investments In Available-For-Sale Securities	The following table summarizes the Company’s investments in available-for-sale securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		December 31, 2014
				Unrealized
		Amortized Cost		Gains		Losses			Estimated Fair Value
	Municipal bonds	$	120,270	$	24	$	(12	)	$	120,282
	Commercial paper	2,498		—		—			2,498
	Corporate bonds	68,758		1		(87		)	68,672
	U.S. government and agency securities	48,095		—		(33		)	48,062
		$	239,621	$	25	$	(132	)	$	239,514
		December 31, 2013
				Unrealized
		Amortized Cost		Gains		Losses			Estimated Fair Value
	Municipal bonds	$	146,047	$	56	$	(3	)	$	146,100
	Commercial paper	31,597		—		—			31,597
	Corporate bonds	7,873		2		—			7,875
	U.S. government and agency securities	5,002		—		(7		)	4,995
		$	190,519	$	58	$	(10	)	$	190,567

Patent_Assets_Net_Tables

Patent Assets, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Patent Assets [Abstract]
Patent Assets, Net	Patent assets, net consisted of the following (in thousands):
		31-Dec-13			Additions			Sales			31-Dec-14
	Patent assets	$	529,526		$	136,468		$	(704	)	$	665,290
	Accumulated amortization	(309,572		)	(119,694		)	325			(428,941		)
	Patent assets, net	$	219,954								$	236,349
		31-Dec-12			Additions			Sales			31-Dec-13
	Patent assets	$	403,875		$	126,501		$	(850	)	$	529,526
	Accumulated amortization	(204,561		)	(105,533		)	522			(309,572		)
	Patent assets, net	$	199,314								$	219,954
Expected Future Annual Amortization Of Patent Assets	s of December 31, 2014, the Company expects amortization expense in future periods to be as follows (in thousands):
	2015	$	111,415
	2016	80,576
	2017	36,241
	2018	7,166
	2019	951
	Total estimated future amortization expense	$	236,349

Property_and_Equipment_Net_Tab

Property and Equipment, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property and Equipment, Net
Property And Equipment, Net	t
	Property and equipment, net, consisted of the following (in thousands):

Goodwill_Tables

Goodwill (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill Disclosure [Abstract]
Changes In The Carrying Amounts Of Goodwill	The changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill were as follows (in thousands):
		2014		2013
	Balance as of January 1,	$	16,460	$	16,460
	Goodwill from business acquisition	3,518		—
	Balance as of December 31,	$	19,978	$	16,460

Intangible_Assets_Net_Tables

Intangible Assets, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible Assets, Net	Intangible assets, net, as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 consisted of the following (in thousands):
		December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
		Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Amount		Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Amount
	Proprietary data and models	$	2,100	$	(1,119	)	$	981	$	1,500	$	(637	)	$	863
	Trademarks	1,890		(1,565		)	325		1,890		(1,184		)	706
	Developed technology	433		(433		)	—		728		(625		)	103
	Customer relationships	1,050		(392		)	658		250		(215		)	35
	Covenant not to compete	1,920		(358		)	1,562		480		(469		)	11
		$	7,393	$	(3,867	)	$	3,526	$	4,848	$	(3,130	)	$	1,718
Expected Future Annual Amortization Of Intangible Assets	s of December 31, 2014, the Company expects amortization expense in future periods to be as follows (in thousands):
	2015	$	111,415
	2016	80,576
	2017	36,241
	2018	7,166
	2019	951
	Total estimated future amortization expense	$	236,349
Intangible Assets Net
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Expected Future Annual Amortization Of Intangible Assets	(in thousands):
	2015	$	1,725
	2016	1,288
	2017	513
	Total estimated future amortization expense	$	3,526

Accrued_and_Other_Current_Liab1

Accrued and Other Current Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accrued and Other Current Liabilities
Accrued And Other Current Liabilities	Accrued and other current liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Accrued payroll-related expenses	$	9,270	$	6,791
	Accrued expenses	4,987		1,993
	Total accrued liabilities	$	14,257	$	8,784
	Patent and other assets purchased but not paid	$	—	$	563
	Other current liabilities	640		1,075
	Total other current liabilities	$	640	$	1,638

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Aggregate Future Non-Cancelable Minimum Lease Payments For Operating Leases	As of December 31, 2014, the future minimum lease payments required under non-cancelable operating leases and the future minimum payments to be received from non-cancelable subleases were as follows:
	2015	$	4,284
	2016	4,269
	2017	4,206
	2018	4,273
	2019	3,613
	Future non-cancelable minimum operating lease payments	20,645
	Less: minimum payments to be received from non-cancelable subleases	(1,499		)
	Total future non-cancelable minimum operating lease payments, net	$	19,146

StockBased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Stock-Based Compensation
Activity Under Equity Settled Award Plans And Related Information	A summary of the Company’s activity under its equity-settled award plans and related information is as follows (in thousands, except per share data):
					Options Outstanding
		Shares Available for Grant			Number of Shares			Weighted-Average Exercise Price			Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years	Aggregate Intrinsic Value
	Balance - December 31, 2013	2,451			4,089			$	9.91
	Shares authorized	1,000			—			—
	Options exercised	—			(623	)		5.08
	Options forfeited	202			(202	)		17.25
	Restricted stock units granted	(1,550	)		—			—
	Restricted stock units forfeited	257			—			—
	Restricted stock units withheld related to net share settlement of restricted stock units	325			—			—
	Balance - December 31, 2014	2,685			3,264			10.38			6.2	$	14,475
	Vested and exercisable - December 31, 2014				2,467			10.51			6.1	11,094
	Vested and expected to vest - December 31, 2014				3,176			10.4			6.2	14,078
Restricted Stock Unit Activity	The summary of restricted stock unit activity, which includes PBRSUs, is as follows (in thousands, except for per share data):
		Number of Shares			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value				Aggregate Intrinsic Value
	Non-vested units - December 31, 2013	2,057			$	12.38
	Granted	1,550			14.54
	Vested	(890	)		13.6
	Forfeited	(257	)		13.85
	Non-vested units - December 31, 2014	2,460			13.15				$	33,896
Weighted-Average Assumptions Used To Estimate The Fair Value Of Stock Options
			Year Ended December 31,
			2013				2012
	Dividend yield		—		%		—		%
	Risk-free rate		0.93		%		1.11		%
	Expected volatility		61		%		61		%
	Expected term (in years)		6.1				6
	Grant date fair value		$	7.39			$	9.02
Weighted-Average Assumptions Used To Estimate The Fair Value Of PBRSUs
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014				2013
	Dividend yield		—				—
	Risk free rate		1.11		%		0.59		%
	Expected volatility		48		%		53		%
	Grant date fair value		$	7.47			$	6.39

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Before Income Tax Provision	Income before income tax provision consists of the following (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Domestic	$	64,238		$	64,281		$	61,983
	International	44			14			86
	Total income before income tax provision	$	64,282		$	64,295		$	62,069
Components Of The Provision For Income Taxes	The components of the provision for income taxes are as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Current:
	Federal	$	(26,517	)	$	(17,145	)	$	(17,525	)
	State	(3,031		)	(1,188		)	(643		)
	Foreign	(9,611		)	(8,220		)	(3,737		)
	Total current provision for income taxes	(39,159		)	(26,553		)	(21,905		)
	Deferred:
	Federal	13,668			2,920			(450		)
	State	550			121			(757		)
	Total deferred provision for income taxes	14,218			3,041			(1,207		)
	Total provision for income taxes	$	(24,941	)	$	(23,512	)	$	(23,112	)
Net Deferred Tax Liabilities	Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) consist of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Deferred revenue	$	2,779		$	1,850
	Reserves and other	2,319			2,073
	Stock-based compensation	5,963			5,200
	Total deferred tax assets	11,061			9,123
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Depreciation and amortization	(6,568		)	(16,960		)
	Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)	$	4,493		$	(7,837	)
Reconciliation Of The Statutory Federal Income Tax To Effective Tax	The following is a reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax to the Company’s effective tax (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Tax at statutory federal rate	$	(22,498	)	$	(22,503	)	$	(21,721	)
	State tax – net of federal benefit	(1,678		)	(655		)	(928		)
	Permanent differences	(879		)	(569		)	(644		)
	Foreign tax	(9,576		)	(8,214		)	(3,737		)
	Foreign tax credits	9,576			8,216			3,652
	Foreign income not taxed at federal rate	(3		)	1			30
	Other	117			212			236
	Total provision for income taxes	$	(24,941	)	$	(23,512	)	$	(23,112	)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits	The following table summarizes the activity related to the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits (in thousands):
		2014			2013			2012
	Balance as of January 1,	$	2,036		$	1,136		$	369
	Gross increase related to current period tax positions	1,672			1,043			767
	Gross decrease related to prior period tax positions	(1		)	(143		)	—
	Balance as of December 31,	$	3,707		$	2,036		$	1,136

Segment_Reporting_Tables

Segment Reporting (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting
Revenue By Location	The following table presents revenue by location and revenue generated by country as a percentage of total revenue for the applicable period, for countries representing 10% or more of revenues for the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
	United States	$	166,593	64	%	$	145,310	61	%	$	111,419	56	%
	Japan	36,849		14		39,465		17		40,484		20
	Other	55,893		22		52,729		22		45,785		24
	Total revenue	$	259,335	100	%	$	237,504	100	%	$	197,688	100	%
Long-Lived Assets Information By Location	Long-lived assets information by location is presented below (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013
	United States	$	4,137	$	4,646
	Japan	14		21
	Total long-lived assets	$	4,151	$	4,667

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_I1

Selected Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Selected Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)	Summarized quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 is as follows (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended
		March 31,		June 30,			September 30,			December 31,
		2014		2014			2014			2014
	Revenue	$	61,888	$	64,293		$	65,407		$	67,747
	Cost of revenue	28,920		31,542			30,444			33,529
	Selling, general and administrative expenses	17,255		18,579			17,786			18,059
	Loss on sale of patent assets	—		(699		)	(8		)	—
	Operating income	15,713		14,871			17,185			16,159
	Other income, net	99		94			73			88
	Income before provision for income taxes	15,812		14,965			17,258			16,247
	Provision for income taxes	5,952		5,566			6,425			6,998
	Net income	$	9,860	$	9,399		$	10,833		$	9,249
	Net income available to common stockholders:
	Basic	$	9,860	$	9,399		$	10,833		$	9,249
	Diluted	$	9,860	$	9,399		$	10,833		$	9,249
	Net income available to common stockholders per common share(1):
	Basic	$	0.19	$	0.18		$	0.2		$	0.17
	Diluted	$	0.18	$	0.17		$	0.2		$	0.17
	Other Data:
	Deferred revenue, including current portion	$	140,534	$	131,207		$	112,820		$	136,209
	Stock-based compensation expense	$	3,803	$	5,065		$	4,486		$	4,302
		Three Months Ended
		March 31,		June 30,			September 30,			December 31,
		2013		2013			2013			2013
	Revenue	$	61,194	$	57,481		$	58,554		$	60,275
	Cost of revenue	23,670		24,694			29,766			32,641
	Selling, general and administrative expenses	14,473		15,736			15,584			16,732
	(Gain) on sale of patent assets	—		126			—			—
	Operating income	23,051		16,925			13,204			10,902
	Other income (expense), net	51		63			56			43
	Income before provision for income taxes	23,102		16,988			13,260			10,945
	Provision for income taxes	8,407		6,291			4,863			3,951
	Net income	$	14,695	$	10,697		$	8,397		$	6,994
	Net income available to common stockholders:
	Basic	$	14,678	$	10,691		$	8,395		$	6,994
	Diluted	$	14,678	$	10,691		$	8,395		$	6,994
	Net income available to common stockholders per common share(1):
	Basic	$	0.29	$	0.21		$	0.16		$	0.13
	Diluted	$	0.28	$	0.2		$	0.16		$	0.13
	Other Data:
	Deferred revenue, including current portion	$	118,177	$	117,573		$	105,230		$	137,743
	Stock-based compensation expense	$	3,708	$	4,478		$	3,895		$	4,033
	(1) Basic and diluted earnings per share are computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of quarterly basic and diluted per share information may not equal annual basic and diluted earnings per share.

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign2

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			78 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
BESP 5pct of Revenue	0.00%			0.00%
Restricted cash (current and non-current)	$1,675	$1,818		1,675
Capitalization of internal-use sofware and website development costs	1,200	1,200	1,900
Amortization of internal-use sofware and website development costs	$1,300	$1,100	$800
Accounts receivable
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
Number of Significant Clients	3	4		3
Sales Revenue, Subscription Fee
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
Number of Significant Clients	0	0	0	0
Client One | Accounts receivable
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
Concentration of credit risk, percentage	28.00%	18.00%
Client Two | Accounts receivable
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
Concentration of credit risk, percentage	24.00%	16.00%
Client Three | Accounts receivable
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
Concentration of credit risk, percentage	14.00%	13.00%
Client Four | Accounts receivable
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
Concentration of credit risk, percentage		11.00%
Internal-use software
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
Patent assets, useful life	3 years
Weighted Average | Patents
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
Patent assets, useful life	39 months			45 months
Maximum
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life					5 years
Maximum | Patents
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
Patent assets, useful life	60 months
Minimum
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life					3 years
Minimum | Patents
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Polcies [Line Items]
Patent assets, useful life	24 months

Net_Income_Available_to_Common2

Net Income Available to Common Stockholders (Detail) - Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Share Available To Common Stockholders (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Basic:
Net income	$9,249	$10,833	$9,399	$9,860	$6,994	$8,397	$10,697	$14,695	$39,341	$40,783	$38,957
Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Basic									0	20	502
Net income available to common stockholders b basic	9,249	10,833	9,399	9,860	6,994	8,395	10,691	14,678	39,341	40,763	38,455
Diluted:
Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings (Loss), Diluted									0	0	-19
Net income available to common stockholders b diluted	$9,249	$10,833	$9,399	$9,860	$6,994	$8,395	$10,691	$14,678	$39,341	$40,763	$38,474
Basic shares:
Weighted-average shares used in computing basic net income available to comon stockholders									53,444	51,956	49,766
Diluted shares:
Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock units using treasury-stock method									1,374	1,696	2,036
Weighted-average shares used in computing diluted net income available to common stockholders									54,818	53,652	51,802
Net income per common share available to common stockholders:
Basic	$0.17	$0.20	$0.18	$0.19	$0.13	$0.16	$0.21	$0.29	$0.74	$0.78	$0.77
Diluted	$0.17	$0.20	$0.17	$0.18	$0.13	$0.16	$0.20	$0.28	$0.72	$0.76	$0.74

Net_Income_Available_to_Common3

Net Income Available to Common Stockholders (Detail) - Anti-Dilutive Securities Not Included In Diluted Shares Outstanding Calculation	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Stock options outstanding
Weighted-average:
Weighted-average anti-dilutive securities	767	1,215	2,672
Restricted stock units outstanding
Weighted-average:
Weighted-average anti-dilutive securities	100	127	395
Shares of common stock subject to repurchase
Weighted-average:
Weighted-average anti-dilutive securities	0	25	649

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Detail) - Financial Assets Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	$9,609	$38,336
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	239,514	190,567
Muncipal bonds
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	120,282	146,100
Commercial paper
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	2,498	31,597
Corporate bonds
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	68,672	7,875
U.S. government and agency securities
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	48,062	4,995
Commercial paper
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	5,749	34,498
U.S. government and agency securities
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	2,000	3,801
Money market funds
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	451	37
Muncipal bonds
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	1,409
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	451	37
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Muncipal bonds
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Commercial paper
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Corporate bonds
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | U.S. government and agency securities
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Commercial paper
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | U.S. government and agency securities
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Money market funds
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	451	37
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Muncipal bonds
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	9,158	38,299
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	239,514	190,567
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Muncipal bonds
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	120,282	146,100
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Commercial paper
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	2,498	31,597
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Corporate bonds
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	68,672	7,875
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | U.S. government and agency securities
Short-term investments
Short-term investments	48,062	4,995
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Commercial paper
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	5,749	34,498
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | U.S. government and agency securities
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	2,000	3,801
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Money market funds
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Muncipal bonds
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents	$1,409

Shortterm_Investments_Detail_S

Short-term Investments (Detail) - Summary Of Investments In Available-For-Sale Securities (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	$239,621	$190,519
Unrealized Gains	25	58
Unrealized Losses	-132	-10
Estimated Fair Value	239,514	190,567
Municipal bonds
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	120,270	146,047
Unrealized Gains	24	56
Unrealized Losses	-12	-3
Estimated Fair Value	120,282	146,100
Commercial paper
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	2,498	31,597
Unrealized Gains	0	0
Unrealized Losses	0	0
Estimated Fair Value	2,498	31,597
Corporate bonds
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	68,758	7,873
Unrealized Gains	1	2
Unrealized Losses	-87	0
Estimated Fair Value	68,672	7,875
U.S. government and agency securities
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	48,095	5,002
Unrealized Gains	0	0
Unrealized Losses	-33	-7
Estimated Fair Value	$48,062	$4,995

Patent_Assets_Net_Detail

Patent Assets, Net (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			78 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of patent assets	$1,500	$1,500	$1,500
Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of patent assets	$119,700	$105,500	$80,400
Minimum | Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Patent assets, useful life	24 months
Maximum | Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Patent assets, useful life	60 months
Weighted Average | Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Patent assets, useful life	39 months			45 months

Patent_Assets_Net_Detail_Paten

Patent Assets, Net (Detail) - Patent Assets, Net (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Patent assets	($7,393)	($4,848)
Accumulated amortization	-3,867	-3,130
Patent assets, net	236,349	219,954
Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Patent assets	-665,290	-529,526	-403,875
Accumulated amortization	-428,941	-309,572	-204,561
Patent assets, net	236,349	219,954	199,314
Additions | Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Patent assets	-136,468	-126,501
Accumulated amortization	-119,694	-105,533
Dispositions | Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Patent assets	-704	-850
Accumulated amortization	($325)	($522)

Patent_Assets_Net_Detail_Expec

Patent Assets, Net (Detail) - Expected Future Annual Amortization Expense Of Patent Assets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
2015	$1,725
2016	1,288
2017	513
Total estimated future amortization expense	236,349	219,954
Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
2015	111,415
2016	80,576
2017	36,241
2018	7,166
2019	951
Total estimated future amortization expense	$236,349	$219,954	$199,314

Business_Combinations_Details

Business Combinations (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jun. 19, 2014
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	$2,286,000	$0	$45,765,000
Goodwill	19,978,000	16,460,000	16,460,000
DCML
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred				6,200,000
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	2,600,000			3,000,000
Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares				182,408
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable				3,200,000
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill	3,300,000
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent	1,100,000
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment	500,000
Goodwill	3,500,000
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life	3 years
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses | DCML
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Additional Disclosures, Issuance Costs Not Expensed	$100,000

Property_and_Equipment_Net_Det

Property and Equipment, Net (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expense	$123,138	$108,629	$83,137
Internal-use software
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation capitalized as part of internal-use software	100	100	300
Property and equipment, types
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expense	$2,000	$1,600	$1,300

Property_and_Equipment_Net_Det1

Property and Equipment, Net (Detail) - Property And Equipment, Net (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property, plant and equipment, gross	$9,363	$7,926
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization	-5,212	-3,259
Total property and equipment, net	4,151	4,667
Internal-use software
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Internal-use software	5,358	4,198
Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Leasehold improvements	1,799	1,700
Computer, equipment and software
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Computer, equipment and software	1,221	1,096
Furniture and fixtures
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Furniture and fixtures	818	813
Construction-in-progress
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Construction-in-progress	$167	$119

Goodwill_Detail_Changes_In_The

Goodwill (Detail) - Changes In The Carrying Amounts Of Goodwill (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Balance as of January 1,	$16,460	$16,460
Goodwill from business acquisition	3,518	0
Balance as of December 31,	$19,978	$16,460

Intangible_Assets_Net_Detail

Intangible Assets, Net (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Intangible Assets, Net
Amortization of intangible assets	$1,500	$1,500	$1,500

Intangible_Assets_Net_Detail_I

Intangible Assets, Net (Detail) - Intangible Assets, Net (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Carrying amount	$7,393	$4,848
Accumulated amortization	-3,867	-3,130
Net carrying amount	3,526	1,718
Proprietary data and models
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Carrying amount	2,100	1,500
Accumulated amortization	-1,119	-637
Net carrying amount	981	863
Trademarks
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Carrying amount	1,890	1,890
Accumulated amortization	-1,565	-1,184
Net carrying amount	325	706
Developed technology
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Carrying amount	433	728
Accumulated amortization	-433	-625
Net carrying amount	0	103
Customer relationships
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Carrying amount	1,050	250
Accumulated amortization	-392	-215
Net carrying amount	658	35
Covenant not to compete
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Carrying amount	1,920	480
Accumulated amortization	-358	-469
Net carrying amount	$1,562	$11

Intangible_Assets_Net_Detail_E

Intangible Assets, Net (Detail) - Estimated Future Amortization Expenses For Intangible Assets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Estimated Future Amortization Expenses for Intangible Assets [Abstract]
2015	$1,725
2016	1,288
2017	513
Total estimated future amortization expense	$3,526	$1,718

Accrued_and_Other_Current_Liab2

Accrued and Other Current Liabilities (Detail) - Accrued And Other Current Liabilities (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Accrued liabilities	$14,257	$8,784
Other current liabilities	640	1,638
Accrued payroll-related expenses
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Accrued liabilities	9,270	6,791
Accrued expenses
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Accrued liabilities	4,987	1,993
Patent and other assets purchased but not paid
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Other current liabilities	0	563
Other current liabilities
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Other current liabilities	$640	$1,075

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012
	defendant	insurance_policy	insurance_policy		sqft
	sqft
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Number of Defendants	5
Area of real estate property (in square feet)	67,000				67,000
Monthly base rent payments		$300,000
Operating Leases, Income Statement, Sublease Revenue		600,000
Rent expense related to non-cancelable operating leases		3,500,000	3,500,000	2,400,000
Number of active insurance policies		48	25
Reserves for known and incurred but not reported claims		500,000	600,000
Patent asset purchase commitments		3,000,000
Maximum
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Monthly base rent payments		$400,000

Commitments_and_Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies - Aggregate Future Non-Cancelable Minimum Lease Payments For Operating Leases (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]
2015	$4,284
2016	4,269
2017	4,206
2018	4,273
2019	3,613
Total future non-cancelable minimum lease payments	20,645
Less: minimum payments to be received from non-cancelable subleases	-1,499
Total future non-cancelable minimum operating lease payments, net	$19,146

StockBased_Compensation_Detail

Stock-Based Compensation (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2008
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common stock authorized (in shares)	200,000,000				200,000,000				200,000,000	200,000,000
Common stock, par value per share (in dollars per share)	$0.00				$0.00				$0.00	$0.00
Preferred shares authorized (in shares)	10,000,000								10,000,000
Preferred stock par value per share (in dollars per share)	$0.00								$0.00
Additional shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the 2011 Plan (in shares)									1,000,000
Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised									$7,000,000	$13,500,000	$23,800,000
Total fair value of stock options vested									6,200,000	9,100,000	8,500,000
Total fair value of RSUs vested									13,700,000	6,600,000	1,600,000
Shares withheld for tax withholdings (in shares)									325,292	45,338
Total payments for the employeesb minimum tax obligations to taxing authorities									4,928,000	756,000	0
Stock-based compensation expense	4,302,000	4,486,000	5,065,000	3,803,000	4,033,000	3,895,000	4,478,000	3,708,000
Restricted stock units granted under equity award plans (in shares)									1,550,000
Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense									5,400,000	8,500,000	7,900,000
Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested equity awards	4,500,000								4,500,000
Weighted-average service period of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested equity awards									1 year 6 months 0 days
Non-employee stock-based compensation expense									0	200,000	300,000
Restricted stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense									11,600,000	6,900,000	2,000,000
Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested equity awards	29,500,000								29,500,000
Weighted-average service period of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested equity awards									2 years 8 months 0 days
Non-employee stock-based compensation expense									0	200,000	300,000
Performance-based restricted stock units with a market condition
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
PBRSUs granted (in shares)									200,000	175,000
Stock-based compensation expense									$800,000	$400,000	$0
2011 and 2008 Plan | Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Grant Exercise Price, Percent of Fair Value									100.00%
2011 and 2008 Plan | Incentive stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Grant Exercise Price, Percent of Fair Value									110.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Amount of Options Owned, Percent									10.00%
2011 and 2008 Plan | Performance-based restricted stock units with a market condition
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Threshold Days									90 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Price per Share on Grant Date Multiplier									1.25
2011 Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common stock reserved for future issuance (in shares)	2,685,154								2,685,154		1,500,000
Additional shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the 2011 Plan (in shares)									1,000,000
2008 Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common stock reserved for future issuance (in shares)												9,019,474
Newly hired employees | 2011 and 2008 Plan | Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage									25.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period									36 months
Newly hired employees | 2011 and 2008 Plan | Restricted stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage									25.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period									3 years
Existing employees | 2011 and 2008 Plan | Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period									48 months
Existing employees | 2011 and 2008 Plan | Restricted stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period									4 years
Existing employees | 2011 and 2008 Plan | Performance-based restricted stock units with a market condition
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage									25.00%
Maximum | 2011 and 2008 Plan | Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options Exercise Period									10 years

StockBased_Compensation_Detail1

Stock-Based Compensation (Detail) - Activity Under Equity Award Plans And Related Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding (in shares)	2,451,000		2,685,000
Outstanding (in shares)	4,089,000		3,264,000
Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$9.91		$10.38
Shares authorized (in shares)	1,000,000
Options exercised (in shares)	-623,000
Options exercised (in dollars per share)	$5.08
Options forfeited (in shares)	-202,000
Options forfeited (in shares)	202,000
Options forfeited (in dollars per share)	$17.25
Restricted stock units withheld related to net share settlement of restricted stock units (in shares)		10,000
Restricted stock units granted (in shares)	-1,550,000
Restricted stock units forfeited (in shares)	257,000
Outstanding (weighted-average contractual life)	6 years 2 months 0 days
Outstanding (intrinsic value)	$14,475
Vested and exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vested and exercisable (shares)	2,467,000
Vested and exercisable (in dollars per share)	$10.51
Vested and exercisable (weighted-average contractual life)	6 years 1 month 0 days
Vested and exercisable (intrinsic value)	11,094
Vested and expected to vest
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vested and expected to vest (shares)	3,176,000
Vested and expected to vest (in dollars per share)	$10.40
Vested and expected to vest (weighted-average contractual life)	6 years 2 months 0 days
Vested and expected to vest (intrinsic value)	$14,078

StockBased_Compensation_Detail2

Stock-Based Compensation (Detail) - Restricted Stock Unit Activity (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Non-vested units (in shares)	2,057
Non-vested units (in dollars per share)	$12.38
Granted (in shares)	1,550
Forfeited (in shares)	-257
Non-vested units (in shares)	2,460
Non-vested units (in dollars per share)	$13.15
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, equity instruments other than options, nonvested, intrinsic value	$33,896
Restricted stock units granted
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted (in shares)	1,550
Granted (in dollars per share)	$14.54
Restricted stock units vested
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vested (in shares)	-890
Vested (in dollars per share)	$13.60
Restricted stock units forfeited
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Forfeited (in shares)	-257
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	$13.85

StockBased_Compensation_Detail3

Stock-Based Compensation (Detail) - Weighted Average Assumptions To Estimate The Fair Value Of Equity Awards (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014
Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Dividend yield	0.00%	0.00%
Risk-free rate	0.93%	1.11%
Expected volatility	61.00%	61.00%
Expected term (in years)	6 years 1 month 5 days	6 years 0 months 0 days
Grant date fair value	$7.39	$9.02
Performance-based restricted stock units with a market condition
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Dividend yield	0.00%		0.00%
Risk-free rate	0.59%		1.11%
Expected volatility	53.00%		48.00%
Grant date fair value	$6.39		$7.47

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Net operating loss carryforwards		$2,000
Unrecognized tax benefits	3,707	2,036	1,136	369
Interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits	$681	$100	$100

Income_Taxes_Details_Income_Be

Income Taxes (Details) - Income Before Income Tax Provision (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Domestic									$64,238	$64,281	$61,983
International									44	14	86
Total income before income tax provision	$16,247	$17,258	$14,965	$15,812	$10,945	$13,260	$16,988	$23,102	$64,282	$64,295	$62,069

Income_Taxes_Details_Component

Income Taxes (Details) - Components Of The Provision For Income Taxes (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current
Federal									($26,517)	($17,145)	($17,525)
State									-3,031	-1,188	-643
Foreign									-9,611	-8,220	-3,737
Total current provision for income taxes									-39,159	-26,553	-21,905
Deferred
Federal									13,668	2,920	-450
State									550	121	-757
Total deferred provision for income taxes									14,218	3,041	-1,207
Total provision for income taxes	($6,998)	($6,425)	($5,566)	($5,952)	($3,951)	($4,863)	($6,291)	($8,407)	($24,941)	($23,512)	($23,112)

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Deta

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Details) - Net Deferred Tax Liabilities (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax assets:
Deferred revenue	$2,779	$1,850
Reserves and other	2,319	2,073
Stock-based compensation	5,963	5,200
Total deferred tax assets	11,061	9,123
Deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation and amortization	-6,568	-16,960
Deferred Tax Assets, Net	$4,493	($7,837)

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Deta1

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Details) - Reconciliation Of The Statutory Federal Income Tax To The Effective Tax (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Tax at statutory federal rate									($22,498)	($22,503)	($21,721)
State tax - net of federal benefit									-1,678	-655	-928
Permanent differences									-879	-569	-644
Foreign tax									-9,576	-8,214	-3,737
Foreign tax credits									9,576	8,216	3,652
Foreign income not taxed at federal rate									-3	1	30
Other									117	212	236
Total provision for income taxes	($6,998)	($6,425)	($5,566)	($5,952)	($3,951)	($4,863)	($6,291)	($8,407)	($24,941)	($23,512)	($23,112)

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Deta2

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Details) - Unrecognized Tax Benefits (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax [Abstract]
Balance as of January 1,	$1,136	$2,036	$1,136	$369
Gross increase related to current period tax positions		1,672	1,043	767
Gross decrease related to prior period tax positions	-1		-143	0
Balance as of December 31,		$3,707	$2,036	$1,136

RelatedParty_Transactions_Deta

Related-Party Transactions (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	board_member	board_member	board_member
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Number of Directors That Also Served On Client Boards	5	4	2
Subscription fee revenue from related party transaction	$9,400	$5,100	$3,600
Receivables due from related parties	$100	$4,400

Employee_Savings_Plan_Employee

Employee Savings Plan Employee Savings Plan (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Savings Plan [Abstract]
Defined Contribution Plan, Participation wait Period	3 months
Maximum employer contribution	$5,000	$2,500
Total matching contribution	$400,000	$200,000

Segment_Reporting_Detail

Segment Reporting (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting
Number of reportable segments	1

Segment_Reporting_Detail_Reven

Segment Reporting (Detail) - Revenue By Location (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
United States (in dollars)	$67,747	$65,407	$64,293	$61,888	$60,275	$58,554	$57,481	$61,194	$259,335	$237,504	$197,688
Total revenue (in dollars)	67,747	65,407	64,293	61,888	60,275	58,554	57,481	61,194	259,335	237,504	197,688
Total revenue									100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
United States
United States (in dollars)									166,593	145,310	111,419
United States									64.00%	61.00%	56.00%
Total revenue (in dollars)									166,593	145,310	111,419
Japan
United States (in dollars)									36,849	39,465	40,484
Other foreign country									14.00%	17.00%	20.00%
Total revenue (in dollars)									36,849	39,465	40,484
Other
United States (in dollars)									55,893	52,729	45,785
Other foreign country									22.00%	22.00%	24.00%
Total revenue (in dollars)									$55,893	$52,729	$45,785

Segment_Reporting_Detail_Longl

Segment Reporting (Detail) - Long-lived Asset Information By Location (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total long-lived assets	$4,151	$4,667
United States
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total long-lived assets	4,137	4,646
Japan
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total long-lived assets	$14	$21

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_I2

Selected Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Revenue	$67,747	$65,407	$64,293	$61,888	$60,275	$58,554	$57,481	$61,194	$259,335	$237,504	$197,688
Cost of revenue	33,529	30,444	31,542	28,920	32,641	29,766	24,694	23,670	124,435	110,771	82,323
Selling, general and administrative expenses	18,059	17,786	18,579	17,255	16,732	15,584	15,736	14,473	71,679	62,525	53,590
(Gain) loss on sale of patent assets, net	0	-8	-699	0	0	0	126	0	-707	126	-177
Operating income	16,159	17,185	14,871	15,713	10,902	13,204	16,925	23,051	63,928	64,082	61,952
Other income (expense), net	88	73	94	99	43	56	63	51	354	213	117
Income before provision for income taxes	16,247	17,258	14,965	15,812	10,945	13,260	16,988	23,102	64,282	64,295	62,069
Provision for income taxes	6,998	6,425	5,566	5,952	3,951	4,863	6,291	8,407	24,941	23,512	23,112
Net income	9,249	10,833	9,399	9,860	6,994	8,397	10,697	14,695	39,341	40,783	38,957
Net income available to common stockholders:
Basic	9,249	10,833	9,399	9,860	6,994	8,395	10,691	14,678	39,341	40,763	38,455
Diluted	9,249	10,833	9,399	9,860	6,994	8,395	10,691	14,678	39,341	40,763	38,474
Net income available to common stockholders per common share(1):
Basic	$0.17	$0.20	$0.18	$0.19	$0.13	$0.16	$0.21	$0.29	$0.74	$0.78	$0.77
Diluted	$0.17	$0.20	$0.17	$0.18	$0.13	$0.16	$0.20	$0.28	$0.72	$0.76	$0.74
Other Data:
Deferred revenue, including current portion	136,209	112,820	131,207	140,534	137,743	105,230	117,573	118,177	136,209	137,743
Stock-based compensation expense	$4,302	$4,486	$5,065	$3,803	$4,033	$3,895	$4,478	$3,708

Subsequent_Events_Details

Subsequent Events (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended
	Jan. 28, 2015	Dec. 26, 2014	Feb. 10, 2015
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Proceeds from Escrow Deposit		$25,000,000
Subsequent Event | Repurchase Agreement 2015
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount			75,000,000
Subsequent Event | Affiliated Entity
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Proceeds from Escrow Deposit	875,000,000
Subsequent Event | Subsidiaries
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Number of Companies Involved in Syndicate	30
Increase (Decrease) in Intangible Assets, Current	$29,000,000
Subsequent Event | Subsidiaries | Patents
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Patent assets, useful life	60 months