ClassicEditor.create(document.querySelector('#editor'), licenseKey: '<YOUR_LICENSE_KEY>', plugins: [ExportPdf], toolbar: ['exportPdf'] );
CKEditor 5 is an open-source framework, but it uses a model. GPL 2+: Free for many open-source projects. Commercial License: Required for "Premium" plugins.
Using CKEditor 5 with a license key hot provides you with a range of benefits, including:
ClassicEditor .create(document.querySelector('#editor'), plugins: [ ExportPdf, /* other plugins / ], licenseKey: 'YOUR_LEGIT_KEY_HERE', exportPdf: / options */ ) .catch(error => console.error(error));
: For self-hosted (npm/ZIP) installations in open-source projects, you must set your configuration to licenseKey: 'GPL' Free Commercial Plan ckeditor 5 license key hot
Instead of chasing broken, dangerous "hot" keys, consider these legitimate paths.
In recent updates, CKEditor 5 introduced a visible notification in the editor interface or developer console if a valid license key is not detected.
Are you developing an or a commercial closed-source application?
| License Type | Best for | Key Features | How to Obtain | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Small-scale commercial projects with CDN-hosted editor | Up to 1,000 editor loads/month; basic features | Sign up for a free plan in the Customer Portal | | Open Source (GPL) | Projects with a GPL-compatible open-source license | Full open-source functionality; includes "Powered by CKEditor" logo | Use 'GPL' as the license key in your configuration | | Premium Features Trial | Testing all paid features before committing | 14-day, commitment-free access to all premium features for both self-hosted and cloud distribution | Sign up for a trial in the Customer Portal | | Commercial (Cloud) | Production commercial projects using the CDN | Access to premium features; usage-based billing | Purchase a plan on the pricing page | | Commercial (Self-Hosted) | Large-scale or custom production projects with self-hosted editor | Maximum flexibility and control; requires a custom plan | Contact the CKEditor sales team for a custom quote | | LTS Edition | Enterprises needing stability and long-term support | Maintenance phase with security updates and no breaking changes until October 2028; requires a specific LTS license key from v47.7.0 onward | Contact the CKEditor sales team to obtain a license | ClassicEditor
: pagination-invalid-license-key
.license-info a color: #0066cc; text-decoration: none;
if (success) setIsValid(true); setMessage( type: 'success', text: 'License key validated successfully!' );
Your license key might only cover the "Core" commercial editor, not the premium add-ons (like Collaboration or Export tools). Using CKEditor 5 with a license key hot
);
As of CKEditor 5 v40+ (specifically the "Granite" update), the licensing model changed. You now need a license key for all premium features and for self-hosted real-time collaboration . The core open-source editor still works without a key.
// A valid initialization configuration is required ClassicEditor.create(document.querySelector('#editor'), licenseKey: ' ' // Cannot be omitted or left blank ); Use code with caution. Choosing Your Path: The Open Source vs. Commercial License
.ckeditor-license-container, .ckeditor-container margin: 20px 0;
// Check if premium features unlock editor.plugins.has('Comments'); // true if licensed and added
export default LicenseKeyManager;