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Cycling '74 offers iLok USB authorization as a portable licensing option for institutions and organizations that want or need to move their Max/RNBO license between multiple machines. While this increases flexibility, there are some important things to know if you are considering this option.
What is an iLok?
The iLok USB Hardware Key is a device that holds authorization keys and connects via the USB port to your computer. Since it is portable, you can move it from one computer to another without the need to authorize each individual computer you use. The iLok is supported by a number of audio software companies including Digidesign and Waves. So, if you use other software besides Max/RNBO you may be able to use an iLok to hold authorizations for a lot of your software. The iLok is cross-platform, and in fact, your iLok need only be set up once to authorize both the Mac and PC versions of Max/RNBO.
Where can I get an iLok?
You can purchase an iLok from ilok.com directly or from a number of retailers. Cycling '74 does not sell iLoks.
How do I authorize a Cycling '74 product via iLok?
First, visit our iLok Submission Form and choose the product you want to authorize via iLok. A member of our Support team will respond shortly with verification that the product has been deposited to your ilok.com account. You will then have to manually transfer the license to your iLok USB key via the iLok license manager.
For Max 7 and 8, you will need to install the iLok license manager from ilok.com on any machines you will use your iLok USB key with.
Once the license is on your iLok USB key, plug the key into your computer, launch the program and you should be authorized.
For Max 8.5 and greater, if you were previously authorized via your Cycling '74 user account you will have to navigate to Help > User Account and Licenses, sign out (if necessary), then your authorization should switch to iLok if the USB key is plugged into your machine.
Can I authorize my machine directly without an iLok USB Key?
No. We currently do not support iLok's direct machine authorization. A USB key is required.
Do I need a special version of Max to use an iLok?
No, you can use the standard Max installer for any version after 4.3.2. You may only use iLok authorization if you own a full license. It is not available for subscriptions.
Does iLok authorization require any additional software to be installed?
For Max6 and earlier versions the iLok drivers for compatible operating systems are installed automatically with the Max installer. Starting with Max7 the PACE/iLok drivers were removed from the Max installer. You will need to install the latest version of the iLok License Manager on any machine you wish to use your iLok with.
May I use iLok to authorize my subscription Max/RNBO license?
No.
Is an iLok Cross Platform?
Yes. One Max/RNBO license on iLok will work on either Windows or MacOS.
How many iLok authorizations do I get with an iLok?
It is our policy to provide one iLok authorization per registered owner.
If I authorize Max via iLok, can I authorize RNBO via a different system?
No. RNBO must be authorized via the same system as Max. If your Max license is authorized via iLok, then your RNBO license must also be authorized via iLok. Please note that in order to authorize both Max and RNBO via iLok, you will have to request that both be moved to iLok by filling out the iLok submission form.
If you already own Max and have that license on iLok, after purchasing the RNBO add-on you will have to request that RNBO be added to your iLok account in order to authorize the software.
Can I also receive Challenge/Response authorizations (max6 and earlier) or Login based authorizations (max7 and later) if I have authorized via an iLok?
No. Since the iLok is portable, it can be moved from computer to computer. With Max 7/8 and RNBO we do allow an emergency sign-in based authorization that lasts for one session at a time in case you forgot your iLok.
What happens if an iLok stops working?
Please confirm that the iLok Key is plugged into a working USB port and that the light on the iLok is on. For Max7 and later, also make sure you have installed the iLok License Manager as Max will not recognize the device without it.
For more information, see the support page in your iLok.com account. If you need to replace a broken or defective iLok, you'll need to follow the RMA procedures outlined on ilok.com.
What if my iLok is lost or stolen?
IMPORTANT: If your iLok is lost or stolen you will need to buy a new software license! Please insure your iLok for the value of the software it authorizes.
How do I move my authorization back from iLok to standard activation?
Switching back to standard activation is possible but requires that you still have access to your physical iLok USB device. It is a multi-step process and will require you to contact support.