Here is the breakdown of why this specific error occurs:
Historical data archiving—which includes logging process tags and alarm logs—is treated as an add-on option. Even if your primary WinCC Runtime Advanced license is fully active and valid, the runtime engine will trigger a license warning the moment it attempts to execute a logging task if the specific license is missing or unrecognized. Common Scenarios Triggering the Error
If you had the license installed but the error appeared after a power failure, the license might be marked as "defective". Open .
Use the standard Windows FileSystemObject ( CreateObject("Scripting.FileSystemObject") ) to open, append, and close external text files.
You purchased the base Runtime Advanced license (e.g., WinCC Runtime Advanced 128 PowerTags) but forgot to purchase the separate "Logging" option license. Here is the breakdown of why this specific
In the world of industrial automation, Siemens WinCC (Windows Control Center) stands as a pillar for visualization and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems. Within the WinCC ecosystem, is the go-to solution for medium to high-end HMI applications, often used in conjunction with SIMATIC S7 controllers.
Once purchased, transfer the license key from the USB stick or download folder to the target PC's C: drive using the Automation License Manager (ALM).
If logging is necessary, check the target PC running the HMI:
Whether you see the listed inside your Automation License Manager? In the world of industrial automation, Siemens WinCC
If the Runtime cannot access the physical storage directory (e.g., an unmapped network drive or an ejected SD card/USB stick), it may throw a generic logging license error. Verify that the file path specified in TIA Portal -> Historical Data exists on the local PC file structure. 3. Clean the ALM Cache
This is a common issue in larger facilities.
: Ensure the configured archive path is accessible and the user has full write permissions. Next Steps Open the Automation License Manager on your Runtime PC.
Siemens treats advanced data features as modular add-ons. If your WinCC project contains even a single historical data log or long-term alarm log, the system actively scans for a specific supplemental license at startup. If that license is missing, unfragmented, or corrupted, the runtime triggers the "License key not available" error. The Missing License: WinCC Logging for Runtime Advanced If that license is missing
service starts automatically and triggers its own license warning even if not used; disabling this service can clear irrelevant popups. How to Resolve It Purchase the License WinCC Logging for Runtime Advanced (e.g., MLFB 6AV2107-0GA00-0BB0). Use Automation License Manager : Open the Siemens Support site
This comprehensive technical guide breaks down why this licensing error occurs and provides a step-by-step framework to resolve it. Understanding the Error Root Cause
Note that for V14 SP1 and higher, some specific licensing rules regarding Sm@rtServer have changed, but logging licenses are generally still required. Summary Checklist Potential Solution Missing License Purchase and install WinCC Logging for Runtime Advanced . Defective License Use Automation License Manager to repair the license. Incorrect License
Verify if a license named is present and has a green checkmark.
The issue is that – it is NOT included with the base WinCC Runtime Advanced license.