Activation keys on demand
Issue a unique activation code for each customer, tied to the exact workbook you compiled.
Licensing
Generate license keys
for the Excel apps you sell.
XLS Padlock includes a key generator that issues activation codes for the workbooks you compile and distribute. Each key carries your own rules: an expiration date or a number of days, a maximum run count, and optional hardware locking. This is licensing for the applications you build, not a tool for unlocking software you did not create.
You keep the keys, the PHP validation server, and the customer relationship.
One generator, every key you need
Expiration and run limits
Set an expiration date, a number of days, or a maximum number of runs per key. An optional reminder screen shows the user what is left.
Optional hardware locking
Bind a key to the customer machine System ID so the license only runs where it was activated.
Offline or online validation
Validate keys entirely offline, or online against your own server to revoke and track them.
Built-in or stand-alone
Create keys inside XLS Padlock, or with the stand-alone key generator, which runs without Excel and saves your settings as profiles.
PHP Key Generator SDK
Issue keys from your own website or store with the free PHP SDK.
From licensing rules to a delivered key
- 01
Define your rules
In the key generator, choose what each key allows: an expiration date or a number of days, a maximum run count, and whether it is hardware locked.
- 02
Generate the key
Create the activation key with the built-in key generator, the stand-alone key generator, or the PHP SDK.
- 03
Your customer activates
The customer enters the key in your compiled workbook, which validates it offline or against your server.
- 04
Manage the license
Track, deactivate, or block a key later through online validation.
Three ways to generate keys
From issuing keys by hand to fully automated delivery, pick what matches how you sell.
Method Best for How keys reach your customer
Built-in key generator
Best for: Occasional or manual sales
Open your workbook project in XLS Padlock, generate the key, and send it to the customer yourself.
Stand-alone key generator
Best for: Batches of keys
Create many keys at once without opening Excel, reuse saved profiles, and send the keys yourself.
PHP Key Generator SDK
Best for: Store or website integration
Your website or WooCommerce store calls the SDK to obtain a key and deliver it when an order arrives.
Key generator questions
-
How do I generate activation keys for my Excel application?
Compile your workbook with XLS Padlock, define your licensing rules, then create a key with the built-in key generator, the stand-alone key generator, or the PHP SDK. Your customer enters the key to activate the compiled application.
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Is this a keygen or a crack tool?
No. XLS Padlock generates license keys for the applications you build and sell yourself. It does not unlock or crack software created by anyone else.
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Can license keys expire or limit how often the application runs?
Yes. Each key can carry an expiration date, a number of days, or a maximum run count. To limit how many computers a customer can use, combine hardware-locked keys with online activation.
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What is the difference between offline and online validation?
Offline validation checks the key on the customer machine with no network needed. Online validation checks it against your server, which lets you revoke a key or bind it to one machine.
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Can I generate keys automatically from my own server or store?
Yes. The PHP Key Generator SDK and the online activation kits let your website or store issue a key the moment an order is placed.
Related documentation and features
Set up the key generator, then combine it with hardware locking and online activation.