Finding Unique NI Computer ID for Activation and Licensing

Updated May 8, 2026

Environment

Software

  • NI License Manager

NI software activation uses a computer’s Computer ID to uniquely identify the system. Not to be confused with a Device ID, the Computer ID is a 16‑character value that is specific to NI product activation and uniquely identifies the computer. It is typically generated the first time NI software is installed on the device.

 

The Computer ID is not the same as the Windows Product ID. The Computer ID can be found within NI License Manager and Volume License Manager, and this document explains how to identify it.

 

NI License Manager, is a software utility used to control access to NI software through license activation. This utility is installed automatically as part of the NI software installation process.

 

NI Volume License Manager is a software utility designed for Software Administrators to manage, track, and monitor software licenses purchased through a Volume License Agreement.
 
Depending on the utility you are using, you can expand the corresponding option below to view its contents.

[+] Finding the Computer ID Through NI License Manager

 

Follow the steps below to obtain the Computer ID from your client machine for software activation:

 

  1. Launch NI License Manager.

  2. Select Computer Information. 

  3. The computer ID is displayed under the computer name.

 

nilmComputerInfo.png
 
 

For older versions of NI License Manager (prior to version 4.0), click on Display Computer Information (F7 key).

 
 
nilmOlderVersionComputerInfo.jpg
 
 
You may use the Computer ID to generate an activation code and Activate NI Software Without Internet Connection.
 
 

[+] Finding the Computer ID Through NI Volume License Manager

 

Software Administrators can submit license file requests to services@ni.com to obtain an updated license file for their server.

 

If you need a new license file and are required to provide your server name, Computer ID, and Service ID, you can obtain this information through Volume License Manager (VLM).

 

NI Volume License Manager 3.x and later

You can find your computer name, Computer ID, and Service ID within the General Information section on the Status tab in VLM 3.x. Your license server name and Computer ID will be displayed as follows:

 

 

 

NI Volume License Manager 2.x and earlier

 

From the menu bar of NI Volume License Manager, select Options » Display Computer Information.

 

To find your server name without using NI Volume License Manager or NI License Manager:

    • Open Control Panel

    • Select System and Security

    • Select System

    • Locate the text next to Computer Name, this will be the Server Name.​​​​​​​

    • Instead of the Computer ID, you can send in the server's MAC address.

 

Sometimes you will also need to reference your service ID. Your Service ID is a unique identifier for your agreement with NI. If you have a new Volume License Agreement (VLA), you can find the Service ID on your Sales Order Acknowledgement (SOA). If you already have a VLA, you can find the Service ID within the NI Volume License Manager (3.0 and later). 

 
 

For more information regarding the Computer ID and the license request process, please refer to the Related Links section below. 

Related Links

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