Maintain an Excel sheet of:
If the IPC/PC was not shut down correctly (e.g., power loss), the license might be marked as "defective" in ALM. Check the license status in the Automation License Manager SmartServer Conflict:
This error typically appears during runtime startup, when attempting to archive data, or when opening the alarm and logging configuration editors. It stops your HMI (Human-Machine Interface) from logging process values, generating reports, or storing alarm messages—functionalities that are critical for regulatory compliance (FDA, GMP, ISO) and process optimization.
: The standard WinCC Runtime Advanced license (e.g., for 512 PowerTags) does not include logging . You must purchase and install the specific WinCC Logging for Runtime Advanced option . license key not available wincc logging for runtime advanced
By systematically verifying the TIA Portal project configuration against the keys present in the Automation License Manager, you can quickly isolate whether the issue requires a project modification or a license transfer.
If you're directly interacting with a Siemens support team or forums, providing the specific WinCC version and details about your configuration can help in getting precise advice.
: If you already own the license, verify its status in the ALM. If the IPC was shut down improperly, the license may be marked as defective . You can right-click the license in ALM and select "Check" to verify its integrity. Maintain an Excel sheet of: If the IPC/PC
Default recommended settings:
Before modifying any software, confirm what licenses are actually needed versus what is currently installed.
To resolve the "License Key Not Available" error, follow these step-by-step troubleshooting guides: : The standard WinCC Runtime Advanced license (e
Few things are more frustrating than spending hours configuring your HMI project, only to be greeted by a cryptic red error message when you hit "Start Runtime." If you are seeing the error you are not alone.
This article provides a deep dive into the causes of this error and offers a step-by-step guide to permanently resolve it.
Ensure the licensing background service is actually running on your machine.
Any assistance or guidance on resolving this issue would be greatly appreciated. Please share your experiences or knowledge on this topic.
WinCC Runtime Advanced requires a base license to run the HMI visualization on a Windows PC (packaged by the number of authorized PowerTags, such as 128, 512, or 2048 tags). However, certain advanced features are treated as optional add-ons.