FlexNet licensing error -8: Invalid (inconsistent) license key

Summary

An Arm tool reports an error containing one or more of the following:

Flex error code: -8
FlexNet licensing error -8
Invalid (inconsistent) license key
Invalid license key (inconsistent authentication code)

What causes this error, and how do I solve it?

Answer

The following table lists possible causes and resolutions for the issue:

Cause Resolution 

You have a corrupted license file. For example, you have edited part of a license file that should not be edited.

Download a fresh copy of your license file from your account on the Arm Licensing Portal. Then follow the instructions in the KBA for the installation of a node-locked license.

Running an older version of the FlexNet license server software that is not compatible with your license file. For example, you have installed a new license key and are seeing the following in you license server log: 

 9:47:00 (lmgrd) Started armlmd (internet tcp_port 9614 pid 29151)
 9:47:00 (armlmd) Unable to initialize access to trusted storage: 2
 9:47:00 (armlmd) FlexNet Licensing version v11.14.1.0 build 194335 x64_lsb
 9:47:00 (armlmd) SLOG: Summary LOG statistics is enabled.
 9:47:00 (armlmd) SLOG: FNPLS-INTERNAL-CKPT1
 9:47:00 (armlmd) SLOG: VM Status: 0
 9:47:00 (armlmd) Using options file: "/Licenses/arm/licenses/armlmd.opt"
 9:47:00 (armlmd) Invalid license key (inconsistent authentication code)

 

Install the latest version of the FlexNet license server software by visiting the Download FlexNet Publisher page.