If you build and sell software, you know how important speed is. DevOps helps you release updates quickly and often. But moving fast can also create security risks, especially when it comes to protecting your software from piracy or unauthorized use.
That’s where KEYLOK dongles come in. These small USB devices help you lock down your software and make sure only paying customers can use it. In this article, we’ll explain—in simple terms—how to add KEYLOK into your application without slowing down your DevOps process.
What is KEYLOK?
KEYLOK makes hardware-based security dongles—little USB sticks that act like keys to your software. If the dongle is plugged in, the software works. If it’s not, it doesn’t.
These dongles:
- Prevent piracy
- Protect your code
- Allow different license models (trial, subscription, feature-based, etc.)
What is DevOps?
DevOps is a way to develop and deliver software faster using automation. You:
- Write code
- Automatically test it
- Package it
- Deploy it
This cycle happens often, many times per day.
Utilizing KEYLOK licensing helps keep your software safe without manual steps or slowing things down, ensuring your software development workflow continues smoothly.
Why is licensing important throughout your DevOps process?
You might be wondering: “Why should I care about licensing in DevOps?”
Here’s why:
- Your software is valuable.
- You don’t want people using it without paying.
Using KEYLOK lets you control:
- Total available licenses of your software
- How long users have access to your software
- What features users have access to
Integrating licensing into your software early can ensure the software is kept secure regardless of the stage in the DevOps pipeline.
How to Add KEYLOK to Your DevOps Pipeline
Let’s break it down into 4 simple steps:
1. Add Licensing to Your Code
During development, your programmers use the KEYLOK SDK to insert licensing checks in the code. This is where you tell the software to only run if a valid dongle is plugged in.
PRO TIP: Use test dongles in development so your team can work without needing physical keys every time.
2. Automate It During Builds
When your software is built (for example using Jenkins, GitHub Actions, or Azure DevOps), you can automatically add license protection.
Your build script can:
- Check for the dongle code
- Insert customer-specific licenses
- Package everything securely
No manual steps = faster and safer builds
3. Test With Licensing in Place
You can run tests to make sure the licensing works correctly. For example:
- What happens if the dongle is missing?
- Does the trial version expire after 30 days?
- Do premium features unlock with the right license?
Automated tests = fewer bugs and better user experience
4. Deliver Secure Software
When everything is ready, you send your software to the customer—along with a dongle that matches their license.
Your customer plugs in the dongle and the software just works—even without an internet connection.
KEYLOK works great for offline environments or high-security industries
Benefits of Using KEYLOK in DevOps
Benefit |
Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Fewer Pirates: | Your software is protected from unauthorized use |
| Faster Releases: | Automation keeps things moving quickly |
| Easy to Scale: | Licensing is tied to the KEYLOK dongles, so scaling is as simple as dongle distribution. |
| Flexible Models: | Use trials, subscriptions, or permanent licenses |
| Reliability: | Hardware security is tough to crack and dependable |
Final Thoughts
KEYLOK is a great licensing solution for teams utilizing a DevOps pipeline. You get strong protection for your software without slowing down your team. Whether you sell industrial tools, medical apps, or desktop programs—dongles make sure only licensed users can access your product.
Ready to make your software safer?
Fill out our SDK Request form to get started and we will show you how to integrate our tools into your build process in just a few steps.
