Comparison of cloud-based and dongle-based ETS6 license activation, covering costs, internet requirements, and switching options.
- ETS6 licenses are cloud-based by default. You can order a USB dongle (€80) with your license or at any time afterwards.
- Cloud activation needs a stable internet connection. Dongle activation works fully offline once activated.
- Once a license is activated on a dongle, it can't be converted back to cloud activation.
KNX offers two ways to activate ETS6 licenses: cloud-based and dongle-based. Both models offer distinct advantages depending on your working environment, so understanding the differences will help you choose the option that best suits your needs.
How licensing works:
All KNX licenses are a one-time purchase, with no subscription or ongoing maintenance fees.
Licenses in the MyKNX shop are cloud-based by default. If you want to use dongle-based activation, you can order a USB dongle (€80) together with your license or at any time afterwards.
The license type is only set when you activate the license. You can activate it in the cloud or, if you ordered a dongle, on the dongle once it has been delivered.
⚠️ Once a license is activated on a dongle, it can't be converted back to cloud activation. If you need both cloud and dongle access, you'll need to purchase two separate licenses.
Feature comparison
| Feature | Cloud-Based License | Dongle-Based License |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Activated and used via your MyKNX account. Each login is verified by the KNX cloud. | The license is stored physically on a USB hardware dongle. |
| Internet connection | Requires a stable, continuous internet connection | Not needed once the license is activated on the dongle |
| Simultaneous use | Can't be used on multiple devices at the same time | Not applicable, as the license is tied to the physical dongle |
| Switching license type | Can be converted to dongle activation at any time, but can't be switched back to cloud | Can't be converted to a cloud license |
| Switching devices | Log out and log in on a different PC | Move the dongle between PCs to switch devices |
| Device flexibility | Usable on any PC whith ETS6 installed, using your MyKNX credentials | Usable on any PC with ETS6 installed, with the dongle plugged in |
| Cost | Included in the base license price | Additional €80 one-time, plus shipping |
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