Etabs License Not Recognized Error 120 Jun 2026

Review: ETABS Error 120 – "License Not Recognized" Product: CSI ETABS Error Code: 120 Error Message: "License not recognized" or "The license server does not support this feature (Error 120)" Overview Error 120 is a common yet frustrating licensing issue that occurs when ETABS (or CSI Software) cannot communicate with the license server or local license file. It typically appears during software startup, blocking access to the program. While the error message is vague, it usually points to one of three root causes: network/server communication failure, outdated license manager tools, or corrupted license path settings. Common Causes

Network License Server Issues

The license server machine is down, unreachable, or firewalled. The CSI License Manager service is not running on the server.

Incorrect License File or Path

The lservrc or license file is missing, renamed, or contains invalid data. ETABS is looking for the license in the wrong directory (e.g., after a software update or reinstall).

Version Mismatch

The installed ETABS version is newer than what the license file supports. The License Manager (LMServer) is outdated and does not recognize the feature code for your ETABS version. etabs license not recognized error 120

Port Blockage

The default CSI port (e.g., 27000) is blocked by Windows Firewall, antivirus, or network policies.

How to Fix Error 120 Based on user reports and CSI documentation, the following steps resolve the issue in most cases: | Step | Action | |------|--------| | 1 | Restart the CSI License Manager on the server (via Services > CSI License Manager). | | 2 | Verify the license file – Ensure lservrc is in the correct folder (usually C:\Program Files\Common Files\CSI\Licenses\ ). | | 3 | Check network connectivity – From the client PC, ping the license server and telnet to port 27000. | | 4 | Update LMServer – Download the latest License Manager from CSI’s website. | | 5 | Reconfigure license path – In ETABS, go to Help > License > Configure, and specify the correct server or local file. | | 6 | Temporarily disable firewall/antivirus – Test if the error disappears; if so, add an exception for lmgrd.exe and ETABS.exe . | User Sentiment (Compiled from Support Forums) Review: ETABS Error 120 – "License Not Recognized"

Frustration level: High – Error 120 often appears without warning after a Windows update or network change. CSI support responsiveness: Mixed – Users report that CSI Support is helpful but slow for urgent cases. Workarounds: Some users downgrade to an older ETABS version or switch to a standalone USB dongle to avoid network license issues altogether.

Pros & Cons of the Licensing System | Pros | Cons | |------|------| | Network licenses allow flexible sharing across a team. | Error 120 is cryptic and requires admin-level troubleshooting. | | Standalone (USB) option available for frequent travelers. | License Manager tools feel outdated (based on FlexNet). | | | No clear error log explaining which feature is unrecognized. | Final Verdict Error 120 is a solvable but annoying barrier. If your IT team is familiar with FlexNet licensing, the fix takes minutes. For individual users or small firms without dedicated IT support, the error can cause significant downtime. Recommendation: Before purchasing ETABS, ensure your IT environment is prepared to maintain a CSI License Manager server, or opt for the standalone USB license to avoid network-related error 120 entirely. Rating (for licensing experience only): ★★☆☆☆ (2/5) Rating (software itself): ★★★★☆ (4/5) – Great software, frustrating license system.