Codesys License Activation -

Activating a CODESYS license typically involves linking a purchased Ticket ID to either a hardware dongle (CODESYS Key) or a software-based "Soft container" on your PC or PLC device. While the CODESYS Development System itself is free to use, runtimes and specific add-ons require these licenses for permanent operation. Online Activation via License Manager

This is the standard method for systems with direct internet access.

Method 2: The "Air-Gapped" – Offline Activation (C2V/Response file)

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

  1. On the Target Device (No Internet):
    • Go to License Management -> Create File.
    • Generate a C2V (Container to Vendor) file. Save it to a USB stick.
  2. On your Office PC (Has Internet):
    • Log into the CODESYS Store (or your distributor’s portal).
    • Upload the C2V file.
    • Enter your license key.
    • Download the resulting Response File.
  3. Back on the Target Device:
    • License Management -> Install Response File.
    • Select the file from your USB stick.
    • Reboot the PLC runtime.

2. The Activation Process (Step-by-Step)

The activation process generally follows this workflow, assuming you have already purchased the license ticket.

Option 1: The Technical Guide (Standard Documentation Style)

Title: How to Activate Your CODESYS License Key Activating a CODESYS license typically involves linking a

Introduction CODESYS development requires a valid license to unlock full functionality and runtime capabilities. Licenses are typically managed via the CODESYS Key (USB dongle) or a SoftContainer (file-based storage on the hard disk). This guide outlines the standard procedure for activating a new license using the CODESYS Development System.

Prerequisites

Step-by-Step Procedure

  1. Open the License Manager: Navigate to the Windows Start Menu and open CODESYS License Manager (or open it via the "Tools" menu inside the CODESYS IDE).
  2. Select Storage Location: In the left-hand navigation pane, ensure the correct storage location is selected. This will either be your Hard Disk Container or your CODESYS Key (if plugged in).
  3. Initiate License Activation: Click the "License..." button (sometimes labeled "License Activation" depending on the version) in the toolbar.
  4. Enter Ticket ID: A dialog window will appear. Enter the Ticket ID (Activation Code) exactly as provided in your delivery email. Ensure there are no leading or trailing spaces.
  5. Connect to Server: Click "Next" or "Activate." The License Manager will connect to the 3S-Smart Software Solutions license server. If your machine uses a proxy server, you may need to configure connection settings.
  6. Confirmation: Once the server validates the ID, the license file will be downloaded and bound to the selected container. You will see a confirmation message and the license will appear in the "Licensed Products" list with a green status icon.
  7. Finalize: Close the dialog. You can now use the licensed features of your CODESYS software.

Step 4 – Get Activation Response (.v2c file)

❌ Time Zone & Clock Issues