Software

How to Swap a GCode (Core) License to DSP (Pro) for Lightburn

Learn how to check if you have a DSP License installed and how to swap from a GCode/Core License to a DSP/Pro License in LightBurn.

2 min read8 steps1 videoUpdated Jul 2026
Watch the walkthrough
Applies toAll machinesTopicSoftware

Preface: This article covers how to check if you have a DSP License installed and how to swap from a GCode/Core License to a DSP/Pro License

Note: There are changes coming to the Lightburn License Structure that will go into effect Oct 1, 2024 which will make some of the information in this article moot. Please read about it here. The old license types were GCode, DSP and then Fiber...now it is just CORE or Pro.
Warning: Before you deactivate your license, be sure to sign up/into the Lightburn portal to confirm your current license, Deactivations and Activations ability. More on that here.

Quickstart Video

Note: In the video, substitute the words Gcode/Core and DSP/Pro.

Complete Guide

Most Common Symptoms that you only have a Gcode License Activated

  1. Ruida controllers not shown as an option in the Device List

    Ruida Controller Option Missing Ruida should be here if you have an active DSP License
    Ruida Controller Option Missing Ruida should be here if you have an active DSP License

    If looking for a Fiber, it would be here:

    Fiber device location in device list

  2. License Doesn't show DSP/Pro

    If it shows Core or Gcode, you need to update

    License showing Core or Gcode

  3. Importing LBDEV File, No Device Imports

    If you are using the "Easy" Button import, but the device does not actually import then you likely do not have the proper license

    LBDEV file import with no device imported


How to Swap a Gcode/Core License to a DSP/Pro License

Locate your DSP/Pro license key that was sent to you by Thunder Laser USA for applicable machine purchases.

Note: If you plan to upgrade your current Gcode/Core key to DSP/Pro on Lightburn's site directly, you can do that as well and skip these steps since you do not have a new key to enter.
  1. Open up Lightburn

    Double Click the Lightburn Icon Let Lightburn Load
    Double click the Lightburn icon Let Lightburn load
  2. Go to Edit > License Management

    Edit menu showing License Management option

  3. Deactivate existing key (Lightburn will close)

    Click the "Deactivate License" Click "Ok" to let Lightburn Close
    Click Deactivate License button Click Ok to let Lightburn close
  4. Open Lightburn back up. Enter new DSP Key and Activate

    Open Lightburn Back up Enter your new DSP key and Click Activate
    Open Lightburn back up Enter your new DSP key and click Activate
  5. Check for DSP/Pro License

    License showing DSP/Pro

    Newer version:

    Newer version showing DSP/Pro license

Now that you have your DSP/Pro key entered, proceed with setting up your new laser device!


Reference Information

The Lightburn License - Everything you need to know about it

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