Activation: Codesys License

Cause: The runtime was installed without the CodeMeter package. Solution: On Debian/Ubuntu, run sudo apt install codemeter. On CODESYS Control for Linux, this is often a separate .deb file from the CODESYS Store.

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.

Before executing an activation, you must identify which type of license you own. CODESYS licenses come in three primary physical forms:

Additionally, you may have different license types: Runtime (allows the PLC to execute code), Toolkit (adds development features like visualization or fieldbuses), or Target Visu.

Title: Understanding CODESYS Licensing: A Guide to Activation

In the world of industrial automation, software licensing ensures that developers have access to the latest features, support, and security updates. CODESYS uses a flexible licensing model, but understanding the activation process is crucial for a smooth workflow.

Container vs. Key Before activating a license, you must decide where to store it.

The Activation Workflow The activation process is designed to be automated. By entering your Ticket ID into the License Manager, the software queries the CODESYS server to verify the purchase and downloads a unique certificate file. This file acts as your proof of ownership.

Best Practice: Revocation Perhaps the most important aspect of CODESYS licensing is the Revocation process. If you are upgrading your PC or moving a license from a hard drive to a USB stick, you must revoke the license before formatting your old drive.

By following these steps and understanding the difference between storage containers, you can ensure your automation projects remain compliant and fully operational.

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

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.

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:

Steps Involved in CODESYS License Activation

The CODESYS license activation process typically involves the following steps:

Types of CODESYS Licenses

CODESYS offers various types of licenses, including:

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.

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 Cause: The runtime was installed without the CodeMeter

: 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

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. License forms

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

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

| Criterion | Score | Comment | |-----------|-------|---------| | Ease of use | 5/10 | Confusing .c2v/.v2c workflow for beginners | | Reliability | 6/10 | SoftContainer fragility hurts | | Security | 7/10 | Adequate for industrial use | | Portability | 4/10 | Tied too tightly to hardware fingerprint | | Documentation | 6/10 | Official docs exist but scattered | | Support | 5/10 | Distributor-dependent; CODESYS GmbH responsive only to direct customers |

Overall: 5.5/10 – Functional but frustrating. Works well if you standardize on dongles and avoid VMs. SoftContainer is a support trap.

Activating a CODESYS license is a straightforward process, typically done through the CODESYS License Manager within the development environment or via a web browser using a Ticket ID. 1. Prerequisite: Locate Your Ticket ID

When you purchase a license, you receive a License Ticket ID (an alphanumeric code, e.g., 12345-67890-ABCDE-FGHIJ-KLMNO). Ensure you have this ready before starting. 2. Activation via CODESYS Development System

This is the most common method if your workstation or controller has an internet connection. Open the License Manager: Go to Tools > License Manager.

Select Target: Choose whether you are activating the license on a Soft Key (bound to your PC) or a Dongle (USB key). Choose Action: Click on Activate License. Enter Ticket ID: Paste your Ticket ID into the field.

Complete: The system will connect to the CODESYS License Server and transfer the license to your chosen container. 3. Activation via Web Browser (Wibu-Systems)

If your target device is offline, you can use the CODESYS License Central portal from any internet-enabled device. Enter Ticket: Input your Ticket ID on the portal homepage. Select Container: Choose the connected Dongle or Soft Key. Offline Transfer:

Generate a Context File (.WibuCmRaC) from the offline device's License Manager. Upload it to the portal. Download the resulting Update File (.WibuCmRaU).

Import that file back into the License Manager on the offline device. 4. Verification

Once activated, the license should appear in the License Manager list with a "Valid" status. For hardware PLC licenses, you can also verify them by logging into the PLC's web-based management interface (if available). Common Troubleshooting Tips

Gateway Issues: Ensure the CODESYS Gateway Service is running in your Windows system tray.

Runtime Version: Check that your CODESYS Runtime version on the PLC supports the license type you are activating.

Firewall: Ensure port 22350 is open, as this is used by the CodeMeter service to communicate with the license server.