A temporary, free license intended for testing and learning. It provides full software functionality but expires after a set period (typically 30 or 90 days).
The license is already active on another computer and was not properly deactivated.
The Technology Guarding tool will generate a containing your PC's unique fingerprint.
To get an official license key, follow the standard B&R procurement pipeline:
A central license server hosts a pool of licenses. When an engineer opens Automation Studio, a license key is temporarily "checked out" over the local network or VPN. When the software closes, the key returns to the pool. b&r automation studio license key
Understanding B&R Automation Studio Licensing: A Complete Guide to Software Keys and Activation
Managing your licenses effectively involves keeping the Automation Studio License Manager updated. This utility handles the activation, deactivation, and transfer of keys. If you need to move your license to a new workstation, the "Return License" feature is critical; it releases the key back to the B&R portal so it can be reactivated on different hardware.
With B&R now fully integrated into ABB, the trajectory of licensing is moving toward the digital ecosystem. We are seeing a shift toward subscription models and cloud-based license management, moving away from the "burned" chip on a memory card.
The license key binds digitally to the unique hardware fingerprint of your PC (motherboard ID, hard drive serial number). It eliminates the risk of losing a physical USB drive. A temporary, free license intended for testing and learning
: Required for professional use and machine distribution. These are typically ordered through a sales representative and delivered as a 25-character key.
For teams working in collaborative environments, B&R offers network licensing. This allows a central server to manage a pool of seats, letting engineers "check out" a license when they need to work in Automation Studio and return it when finished. This is often the most cost-effective route for larger engineering departments.
Tied heavily to the PC’s hardware profile. If your hard drive crashes or you upgrade your motherboard, the license may become broken or deactivated, requiring a support call to reset. 4. How to Activate Your Automation Studio License Key
To obtain and activate a B&R Automation Studio license key, you must first determine which license type fits your needs—ranging from a free 90-day evaluation to long-term commercial subscriptions. Most licenses today are managed via , which uses either a software container on your PC or a physical USB dongle. Available License Types The Technology Guarding tool will generate a containing
Limited features for simpler machine configurations.
Ensure your USB dongle is firmly inserted and its indicator light is on. If using a software key, check that the "CodeMeter" runtime service (the third-party background software B&R uses for security) is running in Windows Services.
Enter the new upgrade serial code provided by your B&R sales representative to instantly flash the new permissions to your hardware or software container. 5. Troubleshooting Common License Errors Error: "No Valid License Found"
If your engineering PC has an internet connection, enter the Product Key directly into the activation window. The tool communicates with the B&R licensing server, validates the key, and binds the license to your PC or connected USB dongle instantly.
Follow these steps to activate your license after receiving the code via email:
While software activation is standard, some industrial setups use dongles. Ensure the dongle is plugged in before launching the software.