For ETABS 2020, an activation key for a standalone license is a unique code provided by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI) after a legitimate purchase or upgrade. This key allows the software to be "locked" to a specific computer's hardware, enabling it to run without a continuous internet connection. How to Get and Use Your Activation Key
Via Email: Upon completing a sales order, the designated licensing contact receives an email containing the Activation Key, download links, and setup instructions.
Customer Center: Authorized users can also retrieve their keys and installation files through the CSI Customer Center.
Trial Version: If you are evaluating the software, you can request a Trial Version to receive a temporary activation key via email. Activation Process
During Installation: When running the installer, select Standalone License (or On-prem Standalone) when prompted for the license type.
Enter the Key: Paste the activation key into the prompt. An active internet connection and administrative rights are required for this step.
Post-Installation Utility: If you need to activate or change a key later, run the StandaloneKey.exe or CSILicenseAssistant.exe found in the CSiLicensing subfolder of your ETABS installation directory. Key Technical Requirements Activation Key For Standalone License Etabs 2020
Internet Access: Required only during activation, deactivation, or renewal.
Firewall Ports: Ensure ports 80 and 443 are open to communicate with the CSI license server.
Hardware Locking: Modern standalone licenses use web-activation locked to your machine's hardware criteria, meaning a physical USB dongle is no longer required.
If you are encountering a "License Not Recognized" error (Error #120), ensure the license was successfully updated or contact CSI Support for assistance. If you'd like, I can help you with: Troubleshooting specific error codes (like #120)
Understanding the difference between Standalone and Cloud Sign-in licenses Steps to transfer your license to a new computer ETABS v20.2.0 ReadMe - Computers and Structures, Inc.
To activate a standalone license for ETABS 2020, you must use a legitimate Activation Key provided by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI) via email following a purchase or trial request. How to Activate Your License For ETABS 2020 , an activation key for
You can activate your standalone license during the initial installation or at any time afterward using the built-in licensing tools. During Installation Run the ETABSv2020LegacySetup.exe installer. When prompted for the license option, select "Standalone". Enter your unique Activation Key when the prompt appears.
Ensure you have an active internet connection; the installer must communicate with the CSI server via ports 80 and 443. After Installation
If you skipped activation during setup, use the CSILicenseAssistant:
Open the Windows Start menu and search for "CSiLicenseAssistant ETABS".
Alternatively, navigate to the CSiLicensing subfolder within your ETABS installation directory (typically C:\Program Files\Computers and Structures\ETABS 20\CSiLicensing) and run CSILicenseAssistant.exe or StandaloneKey.exe.
Set the License Mode to "Standalone" and select the option to Activate your license. Paste your activation key to complete the process. Key Requirements & Tips Professional Use: For professionals in the field of
Administrative Rights: You must run the installer and licensing tools with administrative permissions to modify system folders and the registry.
Internet Access: A connection is required only during the activation, deactivation, or renewal process. Constant internet is not needed to run the program once activated.
License Transfer: Standalone licenses can be moved to another machine, but you must first deactivate the license on the current computer using the same StandaloneKey.exe tool before activating it on the new one.
Official Sources: Always obtain your software and keys directly from the CSI Customer Center or official trial registration page to avoid security risks associated with unofficial "cracks" or key generators. ETABS v20.2.0 ReadMe - CSI | America
Professional Use: For professionals in the field of civil engineering and structural analysis, ETABS is an indispensable tool. It offers detailed analysis and design procedures that are critical for ensuring the safety and durability of buildings and structures.
Educational Value: For students and academic purposes, using ETABS can provide practical experience with industry-standard software, enhancing their skills and employability.
If you have purchased a license, follow these standard procedures to activate your standalone version:
You must email this Locking Code to CSI Support or your local agent.