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Cycling '74 offers iLok USB authorization as a portable licensing option for institutions that want or need to move their Max/RNBO licenses 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. 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.
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.
The other benefit of iLok is that you can authorize Max without an internet connection. Just plug your iLok USB Key into your machine, and you are authorized.
Where can we get an iLok?
You can purchase an iLok from ilok.com directly or from a number of retailers. Cycling '74 does not sell iLok USB Keys.
Can we use iLok to authorize our subscription Max/RNBO licenses?
Yes. We allow iLok authorization for Institutional subscription licenses since they do not automatically renew. However, we do not allow iLok authorization for Individual subscription licenses that are purchased via our online shop.
How do we authorize a Cycling '74 product via iLok?
First, either fill out our iLok Request form, or email us at support@cycling74.com and specify 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 later, 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, and you have the iLok License Manager software installed, 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 a 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 we authorize our machine directly without an iLok USB Key?
No. We currently do not support iLok's direct machine authorization. A USB key is required.
Do we 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.
Does iLok authorization require any additional software to be installed?
For Max 6 and earlier, the iLok drivers for compatible operating systems are installed automatically with the Max installer.
Starting with Max 7, 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.
Do we need an internet connection to use iLok?
No. Since the Max/RNBO authorization resides on your iLok USB Key, you simply have to plug the key into your computer and you will be authorized.
Is an iLok cross platform?
Yes. A Max/RNBO license on iLok will work on either Windows or Mac OS.
How many iLok authorizations do we get per Max/RNBO license?
We provide one iLok authorization per license.
If we authorize Max via iLok, can we 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.
If we authorize Max/RNBO via iLok, can we authorize the same license via another system as well (AC, KeyFile, KeyServer)?
No. A single license cannot be authorized via multiple systems.
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 Max 7 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 our iLok is lost or stolen?
If your iLok is lost or stolen please email us at support@cycling74.com.
How do we move our authorization from iLok to a different system (AC, KeyFile, KeyServer)?
Switching to a different authorization system is possible but requires that you still have access to your physical iLok USB Key. It is a multi-step process and will require you to contact support.