Codesys License Activation May 2026

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.

Dongle can be moved to another PC without reactivation.

| Type | Physical / Virtual | Portability | Common Use | |------|--------------------|-------------|-------------| | USB Dongle (CmStick) | Hardware | High | Industrial PCs, embedded devices | | SoftContainer | File on hard drive/SSD | Low (tied to PC hardware) | Engineering laptops, virtual machines (with limitations) | | Runtime License (target-bound) | Stored in PLC non-volatile memory | None | Embedded controllers, Raspberry Pi, BeagleBone | | Demo License | Temporary container | Varies | Evaluation only (30 days or 2‑hour runtime limit) |

Critical nuance: A license is not a keyfile you copy. It must be activated via the CODESYS License Manager or CODESYS Security Key tool.

In the world of industrial automation, CODESYS (Controller Development System) stands as the de facto standard for IEC 61131-3 programming. However, moving from the free "demo" mode to a fully functional production environment requires navigating the CODESYS Licensing system. Unlike older software that relied on simple serial keys, modern CODESYS utilizes a container-based licensing model tied to hardware IDs.

This guide outlines the mechanisms, procedures, and best practices for activating a CODESYS license.

| 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. codesys license activation

CODESYS license activation is a straightforward but critical process that bridges your purchased software entitlement with your physical or virtual controller. By understanding the three license containers—CmAct (software), CmStick (USB), and CmNet (network)—and following the correct step-by-step procedures for online, offline, or dongle-based activation, you ensure uninterrupted 24/7 operation of your automation system.

Always verify your activation by checking the License Management tab for a green "Activated" status and remember to document your container IDs and deactivation counts. With this guide, you can move from demo mode to production confidently.

Next Steps:

Last updated: Q1 2025 — compatible with CODESYS V3.5 SP20 and CODESYS Runtime V4.0.

Codesys License Activation: A Step-by-Step Guide

Codesys is a popular software used for programming and configuring industrial control systems, particularly in the field of industrial automation. To use Codesys, users need to activate a license, which can be a bit tricky if you're new to the software. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of Codesys license activation, explaining what you need to do to get started with the software.

What is Codesys?

Before we dive into the license activation process, let's briefly introduce Codesys. Codesys is a software tool used for programming, configuration, and testing of industrial control systems, such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and other automation devices. The software provides a comprehensive development environment for creating and testing control applications, making it a widely-used tool in the industrial automation industry.

Why is License Activation Required?

Codesys requires a license to operate, which is a common practice for software vendors to protect their intellectual property and ensure that users have a valid and supported version of the software. The license activation process verifies that you have a genuine copy of Codesys and helps the software vendor to manage and track license usage. Q: Can I move a CmAct software license to another PC

Types of Codesys Licenses

There are several types of Codesys licenses available, including:

Codesys License Activation Process

The license activation process for Codesys involves the following steps:

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during the license activation process, here are some common problems and their solutions:

Best Practices for Codesys License Activation

To ensure smooth and efficient license activation, follow these best practices:

Conclusion

Codesys license activation is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail and a basic understanding of software licensing. By following the steps outlined in this article, you'll be able to activate your Codesys license and start using the software to program and configure industrial control systems. If you encounter any issues during the activation process, refer to the troubleshooting section or contact the software vendor's support team for assistance. Dongle can be moved to another PC without reactivation

To activate a CODESYS license, you typically use the License Manager integrated within the CODESYS Development System

. The process varies slightly depending on whether the target is your workstation or a connected PLC device, and whether the system has an active internet connection. CODESYS Store Prerequisites

: A 25-digit activation code received after purchasing a license from the CODESYS Store License Container : A storage location for the license, either a physical USB Dongle (CODESYS Security Key) or a SoftContainer linked to the specific hardware. Internet Access

: Required for direct online activation. If the target device is offline, an offline transfer method must be used. Activation Procedures 1. Online Activation (Recommended)

This is the fastest method for systems with internet access. Open License Manager : In CODESYS, navigate to Tools > License Manager Select Target Workstation (for engineering tools) or (for PLC runtime licenses). Choose Container : Select the appropriate SoftContainer from the list. Install License Install Licenses Activate License , and enter your

: Follow the wizard prompts to complete the process. The license status will update once successful. CODESYS Online Help 2. Offline Activation

Used when the target PLC or workstation cannot access the internet. CODESYS Online Help Generate Request : In the License Manager, select Install Licenses > Request License . This creates a .WibuCmRaC context file. Upload to License Central

: Move this file to a computer with internet and upload it to CODESYS License Central Download Update

: Enter your Ticket ID on the site to generate and download a license update file ( .WibuCmRaU Import to Device

: Return to the License Manager on the target system, select Install License

, and point to the downloaded update file to complete activation. CODESYS Online Help 3. HMI-Specific Activation (Web Interface) Licensing of Products - CODESYS Online Help