Why can't I activate my license key?

[Paul Sanders (AlpineSoft)]

The first time you run VinylStudio after purchasing a license key, VinylStudio needs to contact our licensing server to activate your key.  This is an important anti-piracy measure, introduced because of a certain 'hacked' key that is floating around the web.

This procedure is automatic and does not normally cause any problems.  Our licensing server runs 24/7 and no human intervention is required.  Occasionally though, VinylStudio is unable to get through.  This is almost always caused by firewall software on the PC blocking outgoing connections.  ZoneAlarm is the most common culprit, and the situation can be resolved either by turning it off while VinylStudio activates the key or (better) configuring it to allow VinylStudio to make those outgoing connections.

The latter is preferable because VinylStudio's 'check for update' feature will then operate correctly: VinylStudio is updated on a regular basis and these upgrades are free.  To do this, if you are running ZoneAlarm, proceed as follows:

• open the ZoneAlarm Security Centre
• click on the Program Control tab in the tabs on the left
• click on the Programs tab at the top
• locate VinylStudio in the list
• ensure that both entries in the Access column are ticked

If this does not solve your problem, or if you wish to run VinylStudio on a PC that is not connected to the Internet, please contact us for assistance.