Codesys License Activation

For industrial PCs or controllers with USB ports.

Step 1: Insert the Dongle Plug the CmStick into a free USB port on the target device (not your development PC, unless the target is the same PC).

Step 2: Ensure CodeMeter Runtime is Running The dongle uses CodeMeter technology. On Windows targets, check the system tray for the CodeMeter Control Center. On Linux, run systemctl status codemeter.

Step 3: Transfer License from Portal to Dongle

Step 4: Reload Licenses in CODESYS On the target’s License Management tab, click "Reload Licenses" under the Hardware Container (CmStick) section. The dongle’s license will appear as active.

CODESYS is a widely used development environment for industrial automation, providing a platform to design, program, and configure controllers using IEC 61131-3 languages. License activation in CODESYS is more than a bureaucratic step: it’s the bridge that moves a solution from evaluation or development into dependable, secure operation on real hardware. This essay explains what license activation means in practical terms, why it matters, the common activation methods, typical pitfalls, and best practices for reliable deployments.

What a license does

Common activation workflows

Technical binding and security Licenses are generally bound to device-specific identifiers to prevent casual copying. Typical identifiers include MAC addresses, CPU serials, or unique runtime IDs. Stronger systems use cryptographic signing to ensure license integrity; the runtime verifies signatures and checks validity dates, feature sets, and usage constraints. License servers often use TLS and authentication to protect license requests.

Operational considerations and pitfalls

Best practices for managing CODESYS licenses

Real-world example (typical sequence)

Conclusion License activation in CODESYS is a crucial operational step that ensures authorized, feature-complete operation of industrial controllers. While activation mechanisms vary—dongles, files, online services, or license servers—the core challenges are consistent: binding licenses to device identities, ensuring continuity across hardware and network changes, and maintaining accurate records to avoid production interruptions. Planning for activation early, automating monitoring, and following vendor procedures turn a potentially disruptive administrative task into a predictable part of deploying resilient automation systems.

Related search terms (These may help you explore further activation guides, vendor portals, and troubleshooting tips.)

The process for CODESYS license activation is managed through the CODESYS Development System via the License Manager tool. Licenses can be activated on two types of containers: a USB Dongle (CODESYS Key) or a Soft Container directly on the target PLC or controller. Activation Process Overview

To activate a license, you generally follow these steps within the CODESYS IDE:

Connect to the Device: Ensure your development PC is connected to the target controller (e.g., via Ethernet) and that you have internet access to reach the CODESYS license server. Open License Manager: Go to Tools -> License Manager. Select Target and Container: Choose Device to install the license on the PLC runtime.

Select either Soft Container (software-based, locked to the hardware) or Dongle (portable USB key). Install and Activate: Select the specific device from the list. Click Install Licenses and choose Activate License.

Enter your 25-digit Ticket ID received via email after your purchase from the CODESYS Store.

Finalize: Follow the wizard to complete the transfer. Once successful, the license will show a green checkmark or appear in the container's product list. Key Licensing Models codesys license activation

Application-Based Licenses: These are hardware-independent and scale based on the application's complexity, such as the number of I/O channels, fieldbus instances, and code size.

Workstation Licenses: Used for professional add-on tools within the CODESYS Development System (e.g., CODESYS Professional Developer Edition).

Demo Mode: Without a license, most runtimes operate in a demo mode that automatically exits after 2 hours. Troubleshooting and Maintenance Frequently Asked Questions | CODESYS Store International

Activating a CODESYS license typically involves linking a Ticket ID (a unique code received after purchase) to a hardware identifier, such as a Soft Container (software-based) or a USB Dongle (hardware-based). License Activation Methods 1. Standard Online Activation

The most common method uses the License Manager built into the CODESYS Development System.

Access: Open the CODESYS Development System and navigate to Tools > License Manager.

Container Selection: Select the device type (e.g., Soft Container on the PC or a connected USB Key).

Activation: Click Activate License, select Online Activation, and enter your Ticket ID. The system communicates with the CODESYS License Server to download and install the license directly. 2. Offline Activation (Transfer via File)

Used when the target controller or PC does not have direct internet access.

Generate Request: In the License Manager, select Activate License > Offline Activation. Choose Generate License Request (.WibuCmRaC).

Transfer: Save this file to a USB drive and take it to a PC with internet access.

License Portal: Upload the request file to the CODESYS License Central portal and enter your Ticket ID.

Download Update: The portal generates a License Update File (.WibuCmRaU).

Import: Return to the offline device and use the License Manager to "Import License Update." 3. Activation via Browser Portal

You can manage and activate licenses directly through a web browser if you have the Ticket ID. Visit the CODESYS Activation Page. Enter your Ticket ID.

View available licenses and follow the prompts to "Activate License" to a local container or dongle connected to your browser's host PC. Core Components

Ticket ID: A 25-character alphanumeric code provided in your purchase confirmation email.

Soft Container: A software-locked license tied to the hardware ID of your PC or PLC. If the hardware changes significantly, the license may become invalid.

USB Dongle (CodeMeter Key): A physical key that allows you to move the license between different machines easily. Important Considerations For industrial PCs or controllers with USB ports

Free Development System: The CODESYS Development System itself is free to download and use for project creation.

Runtime Licensing: Licenses are generally required for the Runtime System (the part that executes the code on a controller) or for specific paid add-ons like CODESYS Static Analysis or CODESYS Git.

License Backup: It is highly recommended to back up your license containers. If using a Soft Container, ensure you follow CODESYS documentation for "Restore" procedures if your hardware fails. CODESYS for your device: Licensing

Your CNC machine or power plant PLC should never touch the internet. Here is the manual method.

Beyond the base runtime, you may need to activate additional options:

In all cases, repeat the Method A process—the additional feature will automatically be unlocked once the main license file is imported, provided the feature was included in your purchase.

CODESYS licensing isn't difficult once you understand the "Container" concept. It is actually more flexible than traditional PLCs—you can move licenses, stack them, and even rent them monthly.

Remember: Always, always return your Soft Container license to the dongle/Server before wiping a hard drive. Otherwise, you are calling support and explaining why you "lost" a $500 license.

Have a war story about a license expiring at 3 AM on a production line? Tell us in the comments below.

Guide to CODESYS License Activation Activating a CODESYS license is a structured process that varies based on whether your target is a physical hardware controller (PLC) or your local workstation. The standard activation hub is the CODESYS License Manager , integrated directly into the Development System. 1. Preparation Before starting, ensure you have the following:

: A 25-digit alphanumeric code received via email after purchasing from the CODESYS Store Target Device : Your PLC must have the CODESYS Runtime installed and running. Connectivity : An active network connection between your PC and the PLC. 2. Choosing Your License Container

CODESYS offers two primary ways to store and "bind" your license: Soft Container

: A software-based storage tied to the specific hardware characteristics of the device. It is cost-effective but can be lost if the hardware (like an SD card) is replaced or formatted without a backup. USB Dongle (CODESYS Key)

: A physical security key that can hold up to 4,000 licenses. Its main advantage is portability

—you can move the license between different controllers simply by swapping the dongle.

CODESYS Forge / Talk / Engineering 🇬🇧: License Activation Problems

Codesys License Activation: A Step-by-Step Guide

Codesys is a popular software used for programming and configuring industrial control systems, particularly in the field of industrial automation. To use Codesys, users need to activate a license, which can be a bit tricky if you're new to the software. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of Codesys license activation, explaining what you need to do to get started with the software.

What is Codesys?

Before we dive into the license activation process, let's briefly introduce Codesys. Codesys is a software tool used for programming, configuration, and testing of industrial control systems, such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and other automation devices. The software provides a comprehensive development environment for creating and testing control applications, making it a widely-used tool in the industrial automation industry.

Why is License Activation Required?

Codesys requires a license to operate, which is a common practice for software vendors to protect their intellectual property and ensure that users have a valid and supported version of the software. The license activation process verifies that you have a genuine copy of Codesys and helps the software vendor to manage and track license usage.

Types of Codesys Licenses

There are several types of Codesys licenses available, including:

Codesys License Activation Process

The license activation process for Codesys involves the following steps:

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during the license activation process, here are some common problems and their solutions:

Best Practices for Codesys License Activation

To ensure smooth and efficient license activation, follow these best practices:

Conclusion

Codesys license activation is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail and a basic understanding of software licensing. By following the steps outlined in this article, you'll be able to activate your Codesys license and start using the software to program and configure industrial control systems. If you encounter any issues during the activation process, refer to the troubleshooting section or contact the software vendor's support team for assistance.

Here’s a helpful step-by-step guide for CODESYS license activation (soft PLC licensing, e.g., for CODESYS Control Runtime).

Title: Quick Start: Activating CODESYS Licenses

Where is my license? After purchasing a CODESYS product, you will receive a Ticket ID (a string of alphanumeric characters) via email.

Activation Steps:

Troubleshooting Tips: