Begin with basic hardware verification to rule out loose connections.
Many dongles rely on a background service (like Sentinel LDK License Manager or Wibu-Key Server ) to function. If this service isn't running, the software won't see the key. Press Win + R , type , and hit Enter.
If you have completed all the steps above and the software still refuses to launch, you are likely facing a hardware failure or a licensing mismatch.
The error mentions "restart the software updater" specifically. This is crucial. The updater process runs as a background service (e.g., hasplms.exe for Sentinel or CodeMeter.exe ). Even if your dongle works in the main application, the updater runs under different system privileges.
Follow these steps in order to resolve most dongle-related failures: Resolving Security Device (USB) Issues (Dongle)
Most engineering, medical, and design software uses industry-standard keys like Sentinel, HASP, CodeMeter, or Wibu-Key. Look for branding printed on the plastic casing of your USB token.
Windows can automatically turn off USB ports to save power, which disconnects idle security hardware. Right-click the Start menu and select . Expand the Universal Serial Bus controllers section.
– Right-click the software updater executable and select "Run as Administrator." Many update processes need elevated privileges to access the dongle's drivers.
Body: Error: “Security device not found — please attach your dongle and restart the software.” Product/version: [x.y.z] OS: [Platform & build] Dongle model/serial: [model/#] Steps tried: replugged, alternate port, driver reinstall, tried on another host (results). Attached: application log, license service log, system event log.
– Check your dongle manufacturer's website periodically for driver updates, especially after major Windows updates.
