Choosing the right option for your shop
When it comes to getting the most from Mastercam, licensing matters. The right licensing setup can simplify management, support growth, and give your team the flexibility they need to stay productive, whether they are on the shop floor, working remotely, or traveling.
This overview breaks down the types of Mastercam licensing available today, including hardware versus software licensing, single seat versus network licensing, and the added advantages of network software licenses.
Hardware Licensing vs. Software Licensing
Mastercam licenses are issued in one of two ways: hardware licenses or software licenses. While both allow you to run Mastercam, they differ significantly in how they are managed and supported.
Hardware licensing (legacy)
Hardware licensing uses a physical USB key (often referred to as a hasp, net hasp, or dongle). In this model, the license lives on the USB device itself rather than on a specific computer. As long as the key is plugged in, Mastercam can run on that machine.
While this approach was common in the past, it is now considered a legacy method. New Mastercam licenses are no longer issued as hardware licenses, and only existing customers continue to use them.
There are also some important limitations to consider:
- USB keys can be lost, stolen, or physically damaged
- If the device fails, the license becomes unusable
- Replacements typically involve converting the license to software licensing
Software licensing (modern standard)
Software licensing is based on a license number and activation code, with the license residing directly on the computer rather than on a removable device. This approach aligns with how most modern software is licensed today.
Key advantages include:
- Easier license management and updates
- Simplified changes when maintenance status or products are added or removed
- No physical hardware to track or replace
If you have the current Activation Wizard installed and your license was activated after November 15, 2023, many updates can be handled through the Automatic License Update process, eliminating the need for manual reactivation.
Single Seat Licensing vs. Network Licensing
Beyond how a license is issued, it is also important to understand how licenses are used within your organization. Mastercam offers both single seat and network licensing options.
Single seat licensing
Single seat licenses are designed for individual users and are especially popular with small shops that have just a few licenses.
With single seat software licensing:
- Each license has its own license number and activation code
- Each license is activated on a specific computer
With single seat hardware licensing:
- Each machine has its own USB hasp
Single seat licensing is simple and straightforward, but it offers limited flexibility and control, especially as a shop grows or needs to manage multiple users.
Network licensing
Network licensing allows licenses to be installed in a central location, where users can check out seats as needed on a first-come, first-served basis. This model is ideal for growing teams or organizations that want to maximize license efficiency. Network licenses are typically hosted on a server, which is the recommended configuration.
Key benefits include:
- Centralized license management
- Shared access to add-ons and translators
- Reduced overall licensing costs over time
With hardware-based network licensing (net hasp), the USB key is plugged into the server rather than individual machines. With network software licensing, no USB device is required at all, unlocking even greater flexibility.
Added Benefits of Network Software Licensing
Network software licensing offers the highest level of control and flexibility, particularly for IT teams and distributed workforces.
Remote access via VPN
Users can connect to the licensed server through a VPN. As long as the VPN connection is active and routing is configured correctly, Mastercam can pull a licensed seat from virtually anywhere with internet access.
This makes network software licensing an ideal choice for:
- Remote or work-from-home employees
- Traveling programmers
- Multi-location teams
License borrowing for offline use
Network software licenses can also be borrowed for offline use. This is especially useful for:
- Short trips
- Off-site training
- Locations without VPN access
Licenses can be borrowed for up to ten days. During that time, the borrowed license behaves like a temporary single seat license. Once it is returned or when the borrowing period expires, the license automatically becomes available on the network again.
Learn More About Mastercam Licensing
To explore your licensing options in more detail or manage your existing licenses, visit the Software Licensing Center on myMastercam. You can also find step-by-step guidance in the Activation Wizard help documentation.
