If you use a network-based or standalone MATLAB license (especially in corporate or academic environments), you’ve likely come across the license.lic file. This small text file is crucial for MATLAB to verify your right to use the software. In this post, we’ll break down what it is, where to find it, how it works, and how to troubleshoot common issues.
VENDOR Line:
INCREMENT / FEATURE Lines:
USE_SERVER: Tells the MATLAB client to look for the SERVER line (network only).
There is a myth that you can edit the license.lic file to extend expiration dates or add toolboxes. This is false. The file contains a cryptographic signature. Changing any character invalidates the signature, and MATLAB will reject the file.
Have a license.lic war story or a unique error? Share it in the comments below.
license.lic file is a plain-text file containing encrypted passcodes that allow you to run the software and its specific toolboxes. Where to Find Your license.lic
Depending on your setup, the file is typically located in the following directories: C:\Program Files\MATLAB\R20XXx\licenses /Applications/MATLAB_R20XXx.app/licenses /usr/local/MATLAB/R20XXx/licenses Network Licenses : You may only see a network.lic
file, which points MATLAB to a license server rather than storing the full license locally. How to Fix 'License Checkout Failed' Issue in MATLAB 2026
In MATLAB, a license.lic file is a plain-text ASCII file containing encrypted passcodes that authorize the use of specific MATLAB products and toolboxes. It is primarily used for manual activation, offline installations, or as an unprocessed file for setting up a Network License Manager. 1. Types of license.lic Files The purpose of the file depends on your license type:
Standalone (Individual/Designated Computer): Used for computers without consistent internet access. It contains the local Host ID and authorized user information. license.lic matlab
Network (Concurrent/Named User): Used by administrators to install the Network License Manager. It must often be configured with SERVER and DAEMON lines to work correctly on a license server. 2. Standard File Locations
MATLAB searches for license files in specific directories based on your operating system: Windows: C:\Program Files\MATLAB\R20XXy\licenses
macOS: /Applications/MATLAB_R20XXy.app/licenses (Right-click the app icon and select "Show Package Contents" to find this folder) Linux: /usr/local/MATLAB/R20XXy/licenses 3. How to Obtain and Use the File
If you cannot activate MATLAB automatically via the internet, follow these steps to use a license.lic file: Where can I find MATLAB license files? - MathWorks
license.lic is a configuration file containing encrypted data that authorizes the use of MATLAB and its associated toolboxes. It functions as a digital key that informs the software about your specific license number, product features, and expiration dates. 1. Key Roles and Versions license.lic
is a common filename, its specific role changes depending on your license type: Individual Licenses:
For personal or academic use, this file is typically generated from the MathWorks License Center
. It is often automatically created during the activation process and placed in a hidden user profile folder. Network/Concurrent Licenses: In these environments, the license.lic file is used to install the Network License Manager . Once installed, it is typically processed into a license.dat file on the server, while client machines use a network.lic file to point to that server. Sign-in Licensing: Modern installations may use a license_info.xml
file instead, which instructs MATLAB to authenticate online via your MathWorks account every time you start the program. 2. Common File Locations
The location of your license file depends on your Operating System and license type: Individual License Location Network License Location %AppData%\MathWorks\MATLAB\R20XXy C:\Program Files\MATLAB\R20XXy\licenses ~/.matlab/R20XXy Inside the MATLAB app package ( ~/.matlab/R20XXy $MATLAB/licenses 3. Manual Management & Commands If you use a network-based or standalone MATLAB
You can interact with or override the default license file using several methods:
How do I force MATLAB to use a specific license file? - MathWorks
A license.lic file is a plain text file used by MATLAB to manage software licensing. It typically contains encrypted server information, package details, and expiration dates required for the software to run. Typical Content Structure
While the specific codes are unique to each user, a standard license.lic file generally includes the following components:
SERVER Line: Specifies the hostname and Host ID (MAC address) of the license server. DAEMON Line: Defines the path to the vendor daemon (MLM).
INCREMENT Lines: Lists the specific MATLAB products (toolboxes) you are authorized to use, their version numbers, and the number of seats available. Usage in Specialized Environments
In automated or containerized setups, placing this file in the root directory is often a requirement. For example, if you are using a lattice generation tool, you must manually setup your matlab license by placing a valid license.lic in the root of the repository before building Docker images. How to Create or Find It
Download from MathWorks: If you are an administrator, you can download a pre-formatted license.lic directly from the MathWorks License Center.
Local Installation: For individual installations, the file is usually located in the etc or licenses folder within your MATLAB installation directory.
Note: Never share the contents of your license.lic file publicly, as it contains sensitive information tied to your organization or personal account. VENDOR Line:
What is a .lic file?
A .lic file is a text file that contains information about your MATLAB license, including the license number, product keys, and other details.
How to obtain a .lic file?
You can obtain a .lic file in one of the following ways:
How to install a .lic file?
To install a .lic file, follow these steps:
Common issues and solutions
Where to find the .lic file?
The .lic file is usually located in a directory such as:
What to do if you lose your .lic file?
If you lose your .lic file, you can: