A few notes before we begin:
- The following article discusses how to activate the software via the Cloud and Dongle activation method.
- A dongle is only used for the Small Business and Enterprise versions of the software. For a walk-through of using our Home version, please click here.
Cloud vs. Dongle
A Cloud Account Code is a 16-digit code that is used to activate the software. It requires a wired ethernet connection in order to activate. However, if you do not have a wired connection you can follow an offline activation step as long as you have access to a machine that does have an internet connection.
A Dongle is a USB that acts as an activation key. You can transfer licenses from your Cloud Account to the Dongle for quicker activation. The Dongle is beneficial to those without a wired ethernet connection and removes the need to type in a code each time you wipe a machine. Please Note: The Dongle does not contain the software itself. You will still need to use a CD or download link as well as the Dongle.
A Dongle is a USB that acts as an activation key. You can transfer licenses from your Cloud Account to the Dongle for quicker activation. The Dongle is beneficial to those without a wired ethernet connection and removes the need to type in a code each time you wipe a machine. Please Note: The Dongle does not contain the software itself. You will still need to use a CD or download link as well as the Dongle.
Cloud Activation
Step 1) First, let's make sure you have your Cloud Account Code ready. You can find this in the downloads e-mail that was sent to you when you made the purchase.
Step 2) Once you have your Cloud Account Code ready, go ahead and boot up the software. You can do this by following these instructions: How to boot from a CD or USB.
Step 3) When WipeDrive boots up, you should see an Activation Failure screen. This is normal, and meant to give you a chance to enter your Cloud Account Code. Go ahead and enter in the Cloud Code exactly as you see in your e-mail, then click OK. If the computer you want to wipe is either NOT connected to the internet via a wired Ethernet connection, or does not have an Ethernet port at all and is normally connected to the internet via Wi-Fi, you will need to continue the process using the Offline Activation method.
Step 2) Once you have your Cloud Account Code ready, go ahead and boot up the software. You can do this by following these instructions: How to boot from a CD or USB.
Step 3) When WipeDrive boots up, you should see an Activation Failure screen. This is normal, and meant to give you a chance to enter your Cloud Account Code. Go ahead and enter in the Cloud Code exactly as you see in your e-mail, then click OK. If the computer you want to wipe is either NOT connected to the internet via a wired Ethernet connection, or does not have an Ethernet port at all and is normally connected to the internet via Wi-Fi, you will need to continue the process using the Offline Activation method.
Step 4) You should now see the Main Menu. Notice that WipeDrive displays how many uses you have left in the bottom-right corner of the screen. If you have a wired Ethernet connection, your software is now activated.
Dongle Activation
Step 1) Before using your Dongle, you will need to move licenses from your Cloud Account Code to the Dongle. You can find instructions on moving licenses here. Please Note: You will not have to recharge the Dongle each time the software is used, just for the initial use, or if licenses become depleted.
Step 2) Once your Dongle is recharged, go ahead and plug it into the machine you wish to wipe. We recommend using a USB 2.0 or newer port.
Step 3) Now you will want to boot up the software. You can do this by following these instructions: How to boot from a CD or USB.
Step 4) The software should boot straight to the main menu and is now activated. If you see the Activation Failure screen, try using a different port or make sure that you have recharged the Dongle and restart the machine.
If you are interested in purchasing a Dongle, please contact your Sales Rep or call the Sales line if you are not sure who your Sales Rep is:
Enterprise Sales
(801) 224-2952
For any questions or concerns regarding activating the software, please contact Enterprise Support:
Enterprise Support
(801) 471-0497
Enterprise-Support@WhiteCanyon.com
For a more in-depth walk-through of our software, please refer to our Enterprise manuals.