Carlson Software Knowledge Base

DotSoft Serialization FAQ

• What is it? Beginning in April, 2025, all newly released DotSoft products will require an associated serial number for full functionality use. Installing a DotSoft product without a serial number will place the product into a limited-time evaluation mode (commonly, 15 days from the point of initial installation).
• Why is this change being made? The product serialization effort serves three main purposes:
  1. Tighter integration with existing Carlson Software procedures, which includes:
     • Availability on Carlson Software Downloads page
     • Better proof of purchase information as found on Carlson Invoice/Receipts
     • Future clarity on product notices and upgrade pricing
  2. Increased security against product piracy or violations of the product end-user license agreement (EULA).
  3. Better conformance to the various EULA policies from Autodesk, Bricsys and IntelliCAD-based product providers.
• How will the serial number(s) work? For each DotSoft product (e.g. MapWorks, ToolPac, XL2CAD, etc) licensed to you or your organization, you will receive at least one serial number per product. The serial number will permit a maximum number of simultaneous computer activations (registrations) based on your purchased seat count. For maximum portability, a previous activation to a computer can be deactivated; thereby freeing up the license for an activation to a different computer.
• I have a multi-seat license of a DotSoft product. What are my serial number options? For organizations that have purchased a "X" multi-seat license of a DotSoft product, configuration options include:
  1. A single serial number that can be shared with all of your team members that permits up to "X" simultaneous activations, or,
  2. "X" serial numbers that can be assigned to specific individuals; with each serial number permitting one simultaneous activation, or,
  3. A hybrid scenario where "X" activations can be spread across multiple serial numbers.
• How does this impact "at home" use? For "work from home" situations, activation at home is permitted based on the number of simultaneous activations allowed by the serial number.
• How (or where) can I find my DotSoft serial number(s)? Serial number information can be obtained via the Carlson User Portal (https://account.carlsonsw.com/login) or through the DotSoft Contact page.
• Can I continue to use my previous DotSoft version(s) after installing the new product(s)? No. Unless otherwise explicitly stated in the previous product EULA or in writing from DotSoft or Carlson Software, you must remove the software previously provided within thirty (30) days of the purchase of the upgrade or update.

Note: To successfully activate the software, your computer will need to be able to communicate with Cryptlex licensing servers. See KB article 1439 for further information.