How to Register and Activate an iLok

iLok is a USB device used to manage music software licenses and prevent unauthorized copying. This article walks through the authentication method shown in its original screenshots, from creating an account to activating a license. After creating a User ID and password, users install and sign in to the iLok application, then activate purchased software using a serial number or the product website. It also explains moving licenses between iLok devices and using software with an iLok connected. Current note: A USB iLok is not required for every license; depending on the publisher, activation may also be available on a computer or iLok Cloud. See the official iLok License Manager overview: https://help.ilok.com/ilm_overview.html

The Updated Activation Method

Questions and Answers from the YouTube Video

At 1:25, the fourth item from the top has a clock-like symbol to the right of the product name. Mine is grayed out and I cannot activate it. What does this state mean, and how can I resolve it?

The subscription or demo period may have expired, making the license unavailable. Please check that possibility.

How can I use a plug-in recognized by iLok in Logic X?

Install the plug-in using its installer so that it appears in Logic. When installing, make sure to select the AU plug-in format.

Where can I find the iLok activation code mentioned in the video?

You receive an iLok serial code when you purchase the product. Use that code to activate it.

I am considering buying Falcon. Can I activate the license with just a serial number, without a dongle?

We do not own the product, so we cannot be certain, but it may be possible because licenses can also be placed on a computer. If you are unsure, it is safest to contact the manufacturer before purchasing.

iLok, which manages music software licenses,
is used to prevent unauthorized copying and use.

You can connect an iLok to a USB port to run supported software.
Its low power consumption also allows connection through a USB hub.

Some software requires an iLok. The license activation method changed, so we will explain the process here.

Create an Account

Click here to visit the iLok website, then click “Create Free Account.”

Let’s go through the fields from the top.

User ID: Your iLok account name must be unique.
Make a note of it, as you will often need it to register software.
First Name: Your given name.
Last Name: Your family name.
Company: Your company name. This field may be left blank.
Email Address: Enter your email address carefully.
Confirm Email: Enter the same email address again.
Password: Used to sign in. Be sure to keep a record of it securely.
Verify Password: Enter the same password again.

Date of Birth: Your date of birth.
Security Question: Choose a question.
Security Answer: Enter your answer.

That completes the form.
After you submit it, a confirmation email will be sent to the email address above.
Note: The email may take a little time to arrive.　

Activate a License

First, visit the iLok website and download the software for your system.

After downloading, install it as you would any other application.

Mac: Applications folder
Windows: Programs folder

The software is installed in the location listed above.

Sign-In 2

Launch the software and sign in.
Click “Sign In,” outlined in red.

Enter the User ID and password you entered in the registration form.

The next step depends on the software.

Activation by Entering a Software Serial Number

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Click the area marked “○○I” in the image above.
For this type of product, enter the serial number you received with your purchase to activate it.

Activation by Registering on the Product Website

iLok-ID 2

On the software manufacturer’s product registration page,
enter your iLok User ID.

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Your purchased software is displayed.
Connect the iLok to your computer,
then drag and drop the purchased software license onto it to complete activation.

Moving Licenses Is Easy

1. Select the iLok containing the license.
2. Select the license you want to move.
3. Drag and drop it onto another iLok.

Important Notes About iLok

For a license activated to an iLok USB, connect that iLok to a USB port when running the software. The original article describes USB-based activation; availability of computer or cloud activation depends on the license.

If an iLok is lost or damaged, the original article points to the form below. For current recovery instructions, see iLok’s RMA guidance: https://help.ilok.com/faq_rma.html
http://akmedia.digidesign.com/support/docs/iLok_lost-stolen_201307_80012.pdf

The original guide refers to iLok 1 and 2 and notes that some software requires iLok 2.
When this article was written, it recommended buying iLok 2. Check current product and license compatibility before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What should I do if I forget my iLok User ID?

The original guide suggests using a recovery link on the iLok sign-in page and verifying your identity with the date of birth or security answers provided at registration. Follow the current account-recovery instructions on the iLok website.

Q2. What is the difference between iLok 1 and iLok 2?

The original article notes that some software requires iLok 2 or later and recommends iLok 2 or 3 for new purchases. Check the current requirements for each license before choosing a device.

Q3. Can I move a license to another computer?

For a USB-based license, you can connect the iLok to another computer with the software installed. The original article also describes dragging a license from one iLok to another; available transfer and activation options depend on the license.