A license.lic file is a plain text file used by MATLAB to manage software licensing. It typically contains encrypted server information, package details, and expiration dates required for the software to run. Typical Content Structure

Linux / macOS: Typically located in: /usr/local/MATLAB/R20XXx/licenses/license.lic Or within the /etc directory for network license managers.

Are you seeing a "Licensing Error" or trying to move MATLAB to a new machine? Here is everything you need to know about the license.lic 1. Where to Find Your License File

In MATLAB, a "feature" usually refers to a specific toolbox (e.g., Signal_Toolbox Statistics_Toolbox ). You can use the

  1. Activation: During installation, you enter your MathWorks Account credentials or an Activation Key.
  2. Download: The installer downloads the appropriate license.lic file automatically.
  3. Manual Update: If your license expires and you renew it, you must log into the MathWorks License Center, select your license, go to the "Install and Activate" tab, and download the updated license.lic file. You then overwrite the old file in the directory mentioned above.

5. Security Warning

Do not upload your license.lic file to public forums, ChatGPT, or GitHub. The SIGN string can be used to impersonate your license server. If your file is leaked, contact MathWorks to revoke and regenerate it.

In MATLAB, a license.lic file is a license file that contains information about your software license, including the license type, expiration date, and permitted users. This file is used to activate and validate your MATLAB license.

Types of MATLAB Licenses and Their license.lic

The structure & location of license.lic depends on your license type: