🎉 Welcome Aboard!
Whether you’ve joined the Complete Access subscription, have purchased a Perpetual Plugin, or even redeemed one of our free plugins, this article will help you activate your plugins easily and get up and running in no time.
🔧 Recommended: Activate Using Complete Access Hub (formerly known as Slate Digital Connect)
We highly recommend using Complete Access Hub — it's the fastest and most user-friendly option.
- Open Complete Access Hub
- Sign in with your Complete Access account
- Grant Admin Access
- Mac: Install Helper Tool (Computer Password Required)
- Windows: Approve User Account Control (UAC) - Click the blue "Activate Licenses" button
- Select your preferred activation method: iLok Cloud or Machine-ID
Note: While iLok Dongle activation is available in the iLok License Manager, it's currently not supported by Complete Access Hub
🔗 Full Guide: Activating with Complete Access Hub
🧠 Quick Breakdown: Activation Methods
| Method | Internet Required | USB Dongle Required | Portability | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iLok Cloud | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | High | Users always online |
| Machine-ID | ❌ No | ❌ No | Low | Two machines, offline usage |
| iLok Dongle | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Medium | Mobile users, offline support |
🔍 Learn more about each method
🎛 Activation Options by Product
Complete Access Subscription
✅ Two activations included
🔄 Activate to: iLok 2/3 USB Dongle, Machine-ID, or iLok Cloud
Perpetual “Buy Now” Plugins
✅ Two activations included
🔄 Activate to: iLok 2/3 USB Dongle or Machine-ID
Microphone Plugins
✅ Two activations included
🔄 Activate to: iLok 2/3 USB Dongle, Machine-ID or iLok Cloud
Free plugins
✅ One activation included
🔄 Activate to: iLok 2/3 USB Dongle or Machine-ID or iLok Cloud
🧩 Other Activation Methods
If you’re not using Complete Access Hub, here are the alternative guides:
- How to activate to an iLok Cloud Session
- How to activate with an iLok Dongle
- How to activate to your computer (Machine-ID)
❓ What’s the Difference Between iLok Cloud, iLok Dongle, and Machine-ID?
iLok Cloud lets you host licenses online — no USB dongle 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 is a physical USB device that stores your licenses. Great for users who need to move between systems or work offline. Once activated, you don’t need an internet connection, with the exception of license renewal for subscriptions.
Machine-ID ties your license to a specific computer. No dongle or internet is required once it’s activated — perfect for fixed setups or studios that stay offline.
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