Solutions for the Activation tab being disabled in License Administrator

Are you unable to activate your Golden Software products because the Activation tab is grayed out? This common licensing issue typically affects users managing licenses for Surfer or Grapher. When the Activation tab is disabled in the Golden Software License Administrator, it prevents users from entering product keys or managing network licenses. Fortunately, this is usually caused by outdated software, disconnected services, or a server configuration mistake.

Follow this step-by-step troubleshooting guide to resolve the issue and get your software running smoothly.

Step 1: Update the License Administrator

You might be running an older version (1.0) of the software.

• Go to the Golden Software download page.

• Download and install the latest version of the License Administrator.

Step 2: Check the Sentinel RMS License Manager Service

The License Manager is a completely separate program from the License Administrator. If it isn't running or installed properly, the tab will remain disabled.

• On your keyboard, press the Windows Key + R at the same time to open the Run dialog box.

• In the text field, type: services.msc

• Click OK or press Enter.

• Locate the service named Sentinel RMS License Manager.

• Check its status:

  • If it is stopped: Try restarting the service.

  • If it is missing entirely: Download and install it from the Golden Software download page.

Step 3: Verify Your Server Connection

Licenses can only be activated when both the License Administrator and the License Manager are installed and actively running on the exact same computer. If you are running the Administrator on a different machine:

• Navigate to the Settings tab in the License Administrator.

• Change the license server setting.

• You can enter the specific server's name, its IP address, or use the search function if it is hosted on your local network.

  

Step 4: Repair a Faulty Installation

If the Sentinel RMS License Manager was not installed successfully, it will cause the tab to freeze.

• Navigate to your Windows Control Panel.

• Open the installed programs list and verify that Sentinel RMS License Manager is present.

• If it is listed: Select it and choose Repair to fix the installation files.

• If it is not listed: Follow the deployment setup instructions in this server setup guide to reinstall it.