How can I activate and use my plugins?

Paul Hessing

October 14, 2026 20:54

🎉 Welcome Aboard!

Whether you’ve joined the Complete Access subscription or purchased a Perpetual Plugin, this article will help you activate your plugins and get up and running in no time.

🆓 Using the Complete Access: Free Collection?

Free Collection plugins don't need to be activated. Starting with versions released on October 15, 2026, there's no iLok license involved. Just install them with Complete Access Hub and open your DAW. For details, please see How To Redeem Complete Access: Free Collection.

🔧 Recommended: Activate Using Complete Access Hub (formerly Slate Digital Connect)

We highly recommend using Complete Access Hub. It's the fastest and most user-friendly option.

1	Open Complete Access Hub
2	Sign in with your Complete Access account
3	Grant admin access On Mac, install the Helper Tool (your computer password is required). On Windows, approve the User Account Control (UAC) prompt.
4	Click the blue "Activate Licenses" button
5	Choose your activation method Select iLok Cloud or Machine-ID.

💡 Using an iLok dongle? Dongle activation isn't currently supported in Complete Access Hub. You can activate to a dongle using iLok License Manager instead.

🔗 Full Guide: Activating with Complete Access Hub →

🎛 Activation Options by Product

Product	Activations	Activate To
Complete Access Subscription	2	🔌 iLok Dongle🖥️ Machine-ID☁️ iLok Cloud
Perpetual “Buy Now” Plugins	2	🔌 iLok Dongle🖥️ Machine-ID
Microphone Plugins	2	🔌 iLok Dongle🖥️ Machine-ID☁️ iLok Cloud
Complete Access: Free Collection	None needed	✅ No license needed Install with Complete Access Hub

Free Collection versions released before October 15, 2026 still use a license with 1 activation (iLok Dongle, Machine-ID, or iLok Cloud). Update to the latest version to remove the license requirement.

🧠 Quick Breakdown: Activation Methods

Method	Internet Required	USB Dongle Required	Portability	Ideal For
☁️ iLok Cloud	Yes	No	High	Users who are always online
🖥️ Machine-ID	No	No	Low	Two machines, offline use
🔌 iLok Dongle	No	Yes	Medium	Mobile users, offline support

🔍 Learn more about each method →

❓ What’s the Difference Between iLok Cloud, iLok Dongle, and Machine-ID?

☁️ iLok Cloud

Hosts your licenses online, so no USB dongle is required. You just need an internet connection while using your plugins. It's the most portable and convenient option if you're always connected.

🔌 iLok Dongle

A physical USB device that stores your licenses. Great for users who move between systems or work offline. Once activated, you don’t need an internet connection, except for subscription license renewals.

🖥️ Machine-ID

Ties your license to a specific computer. No dongle or internet is required once it’s activated, which makes it perfect for fixed setups or studios that stay offline.

🔗 Learn more about iLok Dongles at iLok.com