Codesys License Activation [better] Online

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

Appendix: Example offline activation sequence (concise)

1. On device: open License Management → Export Request → save request file (request.req).
2. On internet PC: log into vendor portal → Upload request.req → pay/confirm → Download activation.lic.
3. Transfer activation.lic to device via USB → Import in License Management → Confirm license enabled.

If you need step-by-step instructions tailored to a specific CODESYS runtime version, device vendor, or a particular licensing error code, tell me the exact runtime/device model and the error text and I will provide a tailored activation procedure.

Error 4: CodeMeter Not Installed (Linux targets)

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.

7. Verify Activation

• In License Manager → Installed licenses tab.

• Check:

  • Product name
  • Expiration date (none for permanent licenses)
  • Status = valid

• Also inside CODESYS IDE:
  Online → Login to runtime → license status shown in log window.

6. Activating a USB Dongle License

1. Insert the USB dongle into the target PC.
2. Open License Manager → select the dongle (appears as separate device).
3. Click Activate license → enter your key.
4. License is written directly to the dongle.

Dongle can be moved to another PC without reactivation.

3. Scenario: Activating "CODESYS Control Win V3"

One of the most common activation scenarios is unlocking the runtime on a PC (SoftPLC).

1. The Default State: By default, CODESYS Control Win V3 runs in "Demo Mode." This restricts runtime to 2 hours, after which the PLC stops.
2. The Action: You purchase a "CODESYS Control Win V3 (SL)" license.
3. The Activation:
   • Open the License Manager.
   • Select the Software Container on your Windows PC.
   • Enter the Ticket ID.
   • The "Control Win V3" license appears in the container.
4. The Result: You must restart the SoftPLC (the Gateway Service). Once restarted, the 2-hour time limit is removed. You now have a full industrial

The CODESYS Development System itself is free to use , but runtime features like Visualization SoftMotion require paid licenses for commercial use. Licenses are typically activated using a 25-digit Ticket ID received via email after purchasing from the CODESYS Store Methods for License Activation 1. Online Activation (Via CODESYS IDE) codesys license activation

This is the standard method when your development PC and target device have internet access. CODESYS Group Licensing of Products - CODESYS Online Help

Here are three different versions of a write-up for "CODESYS License Activation," depending on where you intend to use it (e.g., a technical manual, a quick-start guide, or a blog post).

Error 3: "Invalid License File" during import

Cause: The .lic file is corrupted or for a different CODESYS version. Solution:

• Download the file again from MyCODESYS.
• Ensure the file is not renamed except the extension.
• For CmAct, never edit the .lic file manually.

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). Here’s a helpful step-by-step guide for CODESYS license

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.

Final Checklist: Before you hit "Download"

| Action | Status | | :--- | :--- | | Is the System Time on the target device correct? (Licenses check absolute time) | [ ] | | Did you Install the license, or just Order it? (Activation is a separate step) | [ ] | | Does your Runtime version match the License version (e.g., V3.5 SP19)? | [ ] | Appendix: Example offline activation sequence (concise)