Open Windows Explorer and navigate to the default installation directory: C:\Program Files\Computers and Structures\ETABS [Your Version]\CSiLicensing\
Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI) ETABS is the industry standard for structural analysis and building design. However, few things disrupt a project workflow faster than startup licensing errors. Among these, is a common issue that prevents the software from validating its authorization credentials.
The standalone license file is missing from the ETABS installation directory.
If you are performing a fresh installation and keep hitting this error, some users found success by
How to Fix ETABS License Not Recognized Error 120 Encountering in CSI ETABS can completely halt your structural engineering workflow. This specific error means the software cannot communicate with or validate your license file, whether you use a standalone local license or a network-based setup. etabs license not recognized error 120
Locate the file named lservrc (it may have no file extension). Delete this file.
A firewall might be blocking the port used by Sentinel RMS (default port is ). Open Command Prompt ( cmd ) and type: ping [Your_Server_IP]
file containing the server's IP address to the program folder helps the software find the license faster across the network. CSI Knowledge Base Leo reached for the CSI Licensing troubleshooting tools
The license file belongs to an older or newer version of ETABS than the one installed. Open Windows Explorer and navigate to the default
If you are seeing this on a client machine using a network license: Check Server Connection : Ensure the client can "see" the license server. Use LMHOST.INI : Create a file named LMHOST.INI
An incomplete license string often happens if an activation sequence is interrupted by network changes. Close completely.
and send it to the IT department or CSI Support for a license renewal or re-activation. to CSI or an internal memo for your engineering team?
Below is a draft you can use for a technical support request or a troubleshooting guide for your team. Draft: Troubleshooting ETABS Error 120 Technical Issue: ETABS License Not Recognized (Error 120) Problem Description: Among these, is a common issue that prevents
The current license file has passed its validity date.
If the steps above do not clear Error 120, a clean installation ensures no residual configuration files are causing conflicts.
This prevents the software from opening and accessing the network or standalone license. Recommended Troubleshooting Steps: Restart the License Service: Services.msc on the license server (or local machine for standalone). Sentinel RMS License Manager Right-click and select Verify the License File: Ensure the file is present in the ETABS installation directory. Check if the license has expired. You can use the WlmAdmin.exe tool to verify the expiration date and number of users. Check Environment Variables: Ensure the system environment variable LSFORCEHOST
Firewalls often block the communication port used by CSI software.
: Your machine must have an active internet connection to communicate with the CSI activation servers. Check that Ports 80 and 443 are not blocked by your firewall or antivirus. Update Sentinel Drivers : If you use a hardware USB key, ensure the Sentinel System Driver is installed and up-to-date. Check System Date