The error message "The hardware information does not match with your dongle" in Autodata typically indicates that the software's security system (often a Sentinel USB key) cannot verify your specific hardware configuration against the license stored on the physical or virtual dongle. Common Causes
Driver Corruption: The Sentinel or dongle drivers may be improperly installed or corrupted.
Hardware Changes: Significant changes to your computer's hardware (like a new motherboard or CPU) can trigger this mismatch.
Virtualization Issues: If you are using a virtual dongle or emulator, Windows security updates—specifically Driver Signature Enforcement—may be blocking the emulator from functioning.
Software Mismatch: Using a newer version of the software with an older dongle intended for a previous version. Troubleshooting Steps Reinstall Dongle Drivers: Unplug the USB dongle.
Uninstall existing Sentinel/Dongle drivers from the Device Manager. The error message "The hardware information does not
Download the latest drivers from the official supplier and reinstall them before plugging the hardware back in. Disable Driver Signature Enforcement (for Emulators):
If you are using an emulator on Windows 10 or 11, restart your PC into Advanced Startup options.
Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
Press F7 to select "Disable driver signature enforcement" and try running the software again. Run as Administrator:
Ensure the application is set to "Run as Administrator" to allow it full access to read the hardware IDs from the dongle. Check for Malware: Part 2: The 5 Root Causes of This
Be cautious if you are using a cracked version; some users report that this specific error can appear in compromised files which may also contain IP loggers or malware.
Note: If you are using a legitimate "solid paper" (physical license) version, you should contact Autodata Limited or your official supplier to have your license refreshed for your current hardware.
Are you using a physical USB key or a virtual dongle emulator for this installation? How to Fix Code 45 error on Windows 10/11 [2024 Working]
Here’s a short write-up explaining the issue, its possible causes, and troubleshooting steps for the error: “AutoData: The hardware information does not match with your dongle.”
Understanding the cause is 90% of the solution. Here are the most common triggers: it interrupts diagnostics
If Autodata reports hardware information that doesn’t match your dongle, it interrupts diagnostics, updates, or activation and can be confusing. This post explains likely causes, step-by-step troubleshooting, fixes, and preventive tips so you can get back to work quickly.
AutoData typically uses Sentinel (formerly Aladdin) HASP drivers. If these drivers become corrupted—often by another program installing an older version—the communication between the software and the dongle fails, returning a generic "no match" error instead of a "driver fault" error.
Windows 10 and 11 frequently release cumulative updates. A significant update (like moving from 22H2 to 23H2) changes the internal OS build number and can reset USB controller drivers. To the dongle’s protection driver, this looks like a new motherboard.
If the error started after a specific Windows update or software installation:
rstrui in Windows search.The dongle uses a driver called "Sentinel HASP/LDK" or "SafeNet." Windows often "updates" this driver to a generic version that doesn't report the hardware ID correctly.
How to fix:
Device Manager → Universal Serial Bus devices → Right-click Sentinel HASP Key → Uninstall device.The most common fix is to refresh the communication between the OS and the dongle.
C:\Autodata or C:\Program Files\Autodata) and locate the Drivers or HaspUserSetup folder.HaspUserSetup.exe or SentinelSystemDriverInstaller.exe) as Administrator.