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> I believe the issue here is only with users still running those older dongle-based versions of the software, and only when they try to reinstall that older ve

> I believe the issue here is only with users still running those older dongle-based versions of the software, and only when they try to reinstall that older version. This is a problem because major Steinberg versions are paid upgrades (while minor upgrades are free). Major versions are usually released every 12-18 months. I have two takeaways: No, eLicenser is not just a dongle solution but also their first iteration of software-based licensing, which they have replaced with some new crap. If you are running a Cubase version that is a couple of years old and were previously registering it through the soft eLicenser, this copy of Cubase will stop working as soon as you want to activate it on a new computer. I "own" some older Steinberg software that I have no intention of upgrading, and as a result I will no longer be able to rely on its software-based licensing, as any breakdown of my computer could mean that I will be without a license. There is the possibility of transferring this license to a dongle, which will keep me going until that dongle breaks (which isn't unheard of) or gets lost.

mrandish 2y ago
Oh, it's even worse and more complicated than I thought. If they are breaking earlier versions of their non-dongle soft licensor then that's going to be a mess. Frankly, as a long-time, non-professional user of Cubase, if they make using it any more annoying than it already was, when it comes time I need to do a major upgrade, I'll probably just move on to one of the new competing platforms instead. And, for me, it's not even about the cost. Beyond a certain point, the constant low-level annoyance of such invasive DRM measures on legit users just isn't worth it if you're not being paid to use it.