Codesys License Activation -

Activating a CODESYS license involves using a Ticket ID (25-digit code) purchased from the CODESYS Store to license either a development computer (Workstation) or a target device (PLC/SoftPLC). Here are the primary methods for activation: 1. Online Activation (Easiest)

Requirements: Internet connection on the PC running CODESYS Development System. Open License Manager: In CODESYS, go to Tools →right arrow License Manager.

Select Target: Choose Device (for PLC) or Workstation (for PC) and click Next.

Select Container: Choose Soft Container (software-based) or Dongle (USB key) and click Next. Activate: Click Install Licenses →right arrow Activate License.

Enter Ticket: Input your 25-digit ticket ID. The license will be activated online. 2. Offline Activation

Requirements: A PC with Internet access and a target device without Internet access.

Create Context File: In the License Manager on the target device, select Request License to generate a context file (*.WibuCmRaC).

Activate via Web: Move the file to an Internet-connected computer and go to license.codesys.com.

Upload & Download: Upload the context file, enter the Ticket ID, and download the license update file (*.WibuCmRaU). codesys license activation

Install License: Transfer the update file back to the target computer and select Install License in the License Manager. Key Licensing Concepts

Soft Container: The license is locked to a specific device's hardware ID. It cannot be easily moved.

USB Dongle: The license is locked to a physical CODESYS Key. This allows transferring the license to different devices.

Application-Based Licensing: As of recent versions, licenses can be based on the project scope (e.g., number of I/Os) rather than just the hardware. To give you the most accurate steps, I need to know:

Are you activating a Workstation (CODESYS IDE) or a Device/PLC (runtime)?

Are you using a USB Dongle or a Soft Container (device-locked)? Does the machine have internet access? Licensing of Products - CODESYS Online Help

Introduction

CODESYS is a popular development environment for industrial automation and control systems. To use CODESYS, users need to activate a license, which ensures that they have the necessary permissions to utilize the software's features and functionalities. In this article, we will discuss the process of CODESYS license activation, its importance, and the steps involved. Activating a CODESYS license involves using a Ticket

What is CODESYS License Activation?

CODESYS license activation is the process of validating a user's license to use the CODESYS software. The license is a digital certificate that confirms the user's right to use the software and its features. When a user purchases a CODESYS license, they receive a license file or a license key, which they need to activate to unlock the software's full functionality.

Why is CODESYS License Activation Important?

License activation is essential for several reasons:

Software protection: License activation prevents unauthorized use of the CODESYS software. By activating the license, users ensure that they are using a legitimate copy of the software, which helps to prevent piracy and protect the intellectual property of the software developers.
Feature access: License activation enables users to access all the features and functionalities of the CODESYS software. Without a valid license, users may not be able to use certain features or may have limited access to the software's capabilities.
Support and maintenance: License activation is often required to receive support and maintenance services from the software vendor. By activating their license, users can access technical support, software updates, and patches.

Steps Involved in CODESYS License Activation

The CODESYS license activation process typically involves the following steps:

Purchase a license: Users purchase a CODESYS license from an authorized distributor or the software vendor.
Receive a license file or key: The user receives a license file or a license key, which is used to activate the license.
Install CODESYS: The user installs the CODESYS software on their computer or device.
Launch CODESYS: The user launches the CODESYS software and selects the "Activate License" option.
Enter license information: The user enters the license file or key, and the software verifies the license information.
Online activation: The software connects to the vendor's license server to validate the license. This may require an internet connection.
License activation confirmation: If the license is valid, the software displays a confirmation message, and the user can access all the features and functionalities of CODESYS.

Types of CODESYS Licenses

CODESYS offers various types of licenses, including: Steps Involved in CODESYS License Activation The CODESYS

Node-locked license: A node-locked license is tied to a specific computer or device and can only be used on that device.
Floating license: A floating license can be used on multiple devices, but only by one user at a time.
Trial license: A trial license allows users to test the software for a limited period before purchasing a full license.

Conclusion

CODESYS license activation is an essential process that ensures users have a valid license to use the software and its features. By understanding the importance of license activation and following the steps involved, users can unlock the full potential of CODESYS and develop and implement industrial automation and control systems efficiently.

Part 7: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I move a CmAct software license to another PC? A: Yes, but you must first deactivate it. In the License Management tab, click "Deactivate License". This returns it to your MyCODESYS pool. Then activate on the new device. (Limited to 5 moves/year).

Q: What happens if my USB dongle breaks? A: The license is stored on the dongle’s hardware chip. If it’s physically damaged, you must contact CODESYS support with your proof of purchase. They can deactivate the lost dongle and issue a new license.

Q: My runtime shows "Activated", but the PLC stops every 2 hours. Why? A: You likely have a Toolkit license (for development) but not a Runtime license (for execution). The demo timer stops if any feature lacks a valid license. Check the "Provider Info" pane for which component is expiring.

Q: Does CODESYS require an internet connection constantly? A: No. Activation is a one-time handshake. Once the license is on the target (dongle or hard drive), the runtime never phones home.

Part 2: Prerequisites for Activation

Before starting the activation process, verify the following:

CODESYS Development System (IDE): Version 3.5 SP19 or later recommended.
CODESYS Runtime: Installed and running on your target device.
Target Device Connectivity: Your PC must be able to ping the target device (unless using a USB dongle locally).
License Container: For CmAct, you need the License Container ID (found in the CODESYS Control Win/Linux/ARM dialog).
MyCODESYS Account: You need a valid account at store.codesys.com where the license is registered.
Internet Access: Required for online activation (offline alternatives exist).

3. Activation Process – Step-by-Step Reality Check

Binding, transferring, and updating licenses

Binding
- Most device/runtime licenses are permanently bound to the HWID at activation.
- Some licenses allow binding to a USB dongle or license server (rare for CODESYS runtime).
Transfer
- Transferability depends on license terms. Many licenses are non-transferable; vendors may offer transfer services.
- For transferable licenses, follow vendor process: deactivate on old HWID (if supported) and request reissue for new HWID.
- Keep proof of purchase and license keys/IDs to request transfers from vendor support.
Updating / Renewing
- Time-limited licenses require renewal via vendor portal; apply new activation files before expiry.
- Feature upgrades may require new license files.