

This is done through the string of numbers or letters or through a dongle/USB connected directly to the computer. Once a user downloads or has access to software, a license key is used to unlock the product, therefore, providing access to those who have legally accessed it.

The software license key generator will create a unique license key for each user to enter before using the software for the first time, confirming that they are allowed to legally use the software. When using SaaS software and other software that is downloaded straight to a device, you should be able to perform a license key download after purchasing. If a product has been preinstalled on a computer or device, the software key should be listed on a sticker or somewhere prominent in the packaging. If you’ve purchased a physical copy of a product (for example Microsoft Windows), your software key should be in the box. How to get a license key depends on the software and the way that you’ve purchased it. In the long run, companies protect software with license keys. Once the license has been dealt with, the purchaser can receive download the license key (or receive the dongle) in order to install and use the software properly. Different kinds of software may provide different kids of licenses according to number of users, company needs (aka do they need an ongoing subscription, a one-time purchase, or different things for different people within the company), type of software and more. When a person or company purchases software, they must purchase the correct licensing scheme for their needs. It is important to differentiate between the license key and the license itself. Another benefit of a dongle is that it doesn’t require internet to be used. While the hardware dongle may be less convenient for some, it is easier to protect (as it can’t be copied). The key can be a list of characters or numbers that the user must enter when first opening the software or in certain cases a hardware dongle that is connected to the computer. In this piece we’ll look at what license keys are, what they are used for, the different types of license keys, why they are important, best practices, and more.Ī software license key is a way to make sure that only the correct users are able to install and/or use software (after a license has been purchased). As opposed to a license itself, which gives a user (or users) permission to legally use a piece of software, a license key is a code or token that allows the user to identify him/herself as a legal customer (aka a paying one).

What is a software license key and why is it important?Īnyone who uses software, knows how important it is to regulate its use and make sure it is being used appropriately for the price paid.
