What are USB Keys and what do they look like?

All Soundminer desktop software requires the presence of one of the support USB keys (sometimes called dongles) for the software to operate. These keys are not included in the cost of the software.

This is what an ILOK keys throughout the years have looked like: 

These keys are made by PACE AP (www.paceap.com or ILOK.com) and can be purchased locally at any pro audio reseller.  These keys hold multiple authorizations from different manufacturers.  They are designed for single User environments and are preferred by AVID's Pro Tools and their associated plug-ins. Soundminer does not sell ILOK keys.

Codemeter key are flexible keys that can work as single user or as network keys. These are custom programmed by Soundminer and can be purchased from the site. They are fully programmable and look like this:

HASP keys have two generations - Hasp4 and HASP HL.  This is what an older HASP4 M1 Single User looks like:

These keys are also designed for single user environments but are manufacturer specific. In other words, they only hold licenses from one manufacturer and have to be programmed and shipped from the manufacturer so if purchasing this key type remember to factor in shipping costs and time.

This is an older HASP4 network key:

This key type is designed to hold multiple licenses from one manufacturer adn operate on a local area network.  No usb keys are connected at the workstation (client) but instead ,  this one key holds all of the facility's license in one central (usually server) area.

Older Hasp4 keys are no longer supported.  Users with these older keys would have to transfer to one of the supported newer key types.  Hasp HL keys are also not sold anymore because the Codemeter key is far less expensive and more flexible now. This is what the newer HaspHL keys which we still support look like:

Which key is right for me?

ILOK is best suited for single user environments where existing ILOK assets exist (ie. Pro Tools single user station).  Codemeter keys are better suited in LAN environments where there are multiple users wishing to share a set number of licenses.  HASP net keys, while no longer sold, are also network ready and can share licenses across a LAN.

What is an ILOK key and how do I get one?

ILOK is a USB key used for authorization of software.  ILOK keys are commonly used in many applications, including Digidesign’s Pro Tools.  ILOK keys can hold authorizations from many different manufacturers and can be purchased locally.  Once a user has purchased an ILOK key, they can register it for free at ILOK.com.  Once a user sets up an account, we can then deposit authorizations electronically.   To learn more visit ILOK.com

What happens if I lose my ILOK key?

Soundminer can replace licenses that are lost or stolen, but there is a small fee because Ilok in turn charges us for those in/out privileges.   ILOK.com does, however, offer some protection of its own in such cases and where ILOk can verify the key has been disabled,  licenses can be replaced for a nominal charge.

Can I transfer my license from my HASP key to my ILOK or vice versa?

Yes.  There is a $35US per licenses charge for any transfers.  If moving from HASP to ILOK you must return your original HASP key within 30 days or you will be charged for another license.

NET KEY NOTE regarding HASP: The number beside the key does NOT mean you necessarily have those many licenses.  It simply means the key can hold up to that number of licenses of any Soundminer product.  Purchasing a Net10 key, for example, still requires that you purchase ten Soundminer licenses in order to run 10 concurrent copies.  Buying a Net10 key and one license means only one person at any given time can run a copy of Soundminer

*Codemeter keys can be programmed for any number of licenses.

I lost my HASP key.  What do I do?

Each key is unique and should be registered when its received.  If the key is registered with us, you can buy a replacement key and license and have it shipped out as a replacement.

Can I use my network key to obtain my license from the web?

YUP.  You can set up a permanent server for your licenses and get your license via the internet without having to bring your key with you.  All you need to do is set up a computer to 'host' the key and to pass that communication past your firewall.  Not hard at all.  We can show you how.