Yes, many users choose to "upgrade" or convert their maintenance contract to a new subscription model to gain access to the latest features and cloud computing capabilities. Conclusion
Toggle to Off if it indicates a driver conflict with a Safenet or Thales file.
Fixed licenses only allow operation on one machine at a time. If you upgrade your workstation, you must officially transfer the seat.
If you are repeatedly facing legacy Zemax license stability issues, upgrading your deployment structure is highly recommended. Ansys has systematically integrated OpticStudio into the standard infrastructure.
If you encountered a bug where the licensing client wouldn't launch after using the , the following fix applies: Solution : Update to version 2025 R1.01 . zemax opticstudio license fixed
A (or node-locked license) ties the software authorization to a single, specific computer’s hardware ID—typically the MAC address of a network card or a unique host ID generated by the Zemax License Manager. Once activated, the license cannot be moved to another computer without a formal license transfer request (deactivation/reactivation).
: While fixed to one machine, these licenses can typically be transferred
: For USB keys, plug the key into a direct USB port on the computer (avoid hubs or docking stations) only the software installation is complete. Zemax License Manager (ZLM)
Which of OpticStudio (e.g., legacy Zemax or Ansys edition) are you running? Share public link Yes, many users choose to "upgrade" or convert
Many users have legacy perpetual licenses (license numbers typically starting with L1, or 22000-40999 for black USB keys). 1. Checking Your License Type
[Old Computer] -> Deactivate/Transfer Away -> [Zemax Cloud Server] -> Activate/Transfer To -> [New Computer] Step 1: Deactivate on the Old Computer Open the on the current machine.
This is sent via email upon purchase or renewal.
Transitioning from legacy softkeys to Ansys shared licensing provides a much more robust framework, native support for advanced cloud computing environments, and centralized administration tools that eliminate local machine driver dependencies. Troubleshooting Summary Matrix Error Message / Symptom Likely Root Cause Immediate Action Item Sentinel service is stopped or driver is corrupted. Restart Sentinel LDK Service in Windows Services. "Cloned License" Hardware change or major Windows update. If you upgrade your workstation, you must officially
Uses the Ansys License Manager (shared port 1055). OpticStudio versions released after the Ansys acquisition default to this ecosystem.
Network-hosted floating licenses require flawless communication between your local workstation (the client) and the corporate license server. Fix A: Verify Ports and Firewall Exceptions
Open a web browser and navigate to http://localhost:1947 . This opens the Sentinel Admin Control Center. Click on in the left-hand menu. Select the Access to Remote License Managers tab. Ensure Allow Access to Remote Licenses is checked.