# VRS X Activation & Licensing
### Why activation if this is a freeware?
VRS X is currently in **closed beta.** The activation system is a temporary measure designed to protect the binary files and control the distribution of the early-access builds.
If you are a feeder or contributor, you will see your licence key in "MY Account" section in ADS-B.Pro RadarView (format: 12345-ABCDE-67890-FGHIJ ).
On the first run, VRS X will prompt you for the key. Simply paste it and click "**ACTIVATE**". The app will do the rest.
**Same machine**: No worries. You can overwrite, move, or delete your VRS X app as often as you like. The activation is tied to your hardware.
**New machine**: During the beta, you have a **limited number of activations** (default: 2). If you reach the limit and need more, just reply to your license e-mail with a short explanation.
### The "Why" (let's be honest)
In the past, my code has been stolen and re-used without my consent. I put hundreds of hours into VRS X, and during this closed-beta stage, I want to ensure my work stays within the community that actually supports it. Once we hit a stable release, these "paranoic" measures will be re-evaluated. **This isn't about DRM; it's about respect for the developer's time.**
Control is good, but trust is better. I collect only the absolute minimum:
**Hardware Hash**: A unique string derived from your system (e.g., `/etc/machine-id`),but encrypted. We don't see your actual serial numbers.
**Hostname Hash**:*For example, `pi5-radarservice`, but encrypted.
**License Key**: To link your build to your feedback/support.
**No e-mails, no names, no tracking. You, your software, your instance, my peace of mind**