Copy & Start – No CodeMeter Runtime Needed, now also for Windows Intel & ARM

In certain scenarios, it is desirable for an application to work directly with a local CmDongle without requiring prior installation of CodeMeter components. This is now possible, without any modification to the software, using AxProtector NC for native Windows applications on both Intel and ARM architectures.

CPSRT as a Universal Execution Environment

AxProtector safeguards applications using state-of-the-art protection technologies and integrates them seamlessly into the CodeMeter licensing system. The license keys required for decryption are securely stored, whether in a hardware-based CmDongle, a software-based CmActLicense, or a cloud-based CmCloudContainer. Connectivity is managed flexibly via the WibuCm library in combination with CodeMeter Runtime.

Previously, AxProtector used different execution environments depending on the application type, such as native C++ programs or .NET assemblies. With the expansion to Python and JavaScript applications, the goal was to create a unified, future-proof approach.

The result is CodeMeter Protection Suite Runtime (CPSRT), a central native protection component that combines program encryption, license verification, and anti-reversing measures within a single module. By default, integration with CodeMeter licensing is achieved through an installed CodeMeter Runtime. Alternatively, locally connected CmDongles can be used directly, entirely without installing additional software; only the accompanying CPSRT is required. This optional, flexible mode allows for easy deployment of applications on customer devices or mobile workstations, with no setup effort or administrative privileges needed.

CPSRT forms the technological foundation for AxProtector NC (Native Core) and supports .NET, Python, and JavaScript applications, Linux binaries, and AxProtector CTP (Compile Time Protection). Developers benefit from a unified, high-performance protection solution that delivers maximum security while significantly simplifying software deployment and use.

Windows on ARM

Microsoft Windows is the world’s leading desktop operating system and was long closely associated with Intel-compatible processors. Following its success in embedded and mobile environments, the ARM architecture has now established itself in the desktop space as well. Windows is therefore also available natively for ARM.

An integrated emulation layer enables dynamic translation of Intel-compiled applications into ARM code, allowing many programs to run without recompilation. Intel applications previously protected with AxProtector can also be executed in compatibility mode in this way, provided they were protected with limited anti-reversing measures.

Despite this strong compatibility, demand continues to grow for AxProtector protection specifically for native Windows binaries. AxProtector NC already delivers solutions for .NET, Python, and JavaScript programs, as well as for native applications via CTP. A CPSRT version compiled specifically for Windows on ARM enables protection without an emulation layer, improving both performance and stability.

AxProtector NC for Windows Intel and ARM

With the native support of Windows on ARM comes the expectation that protection mechanisms should also be available across architectures. AxProtector NC addresses this need: Starting with release 11.80 of the CodeMeter Protection Suite, CPSRT-based technology is available for compiled Windows binaries on both Intel and ARM architectures.

Applications can thus be protected consistently, regardless of processor architecture. They run natively, efficiently, and without reliance on emulation mechanisms. AxProtector NC for Windows supports the established features of AxProtector Native Core for .NET, Python, JavaScript, Linux binaries, and CTP. These include automatic encryption, flexible licensing, file encryption, and the outsourcing of sensitive code sequences (CodeMoving). Applications can also run directly with locally connected CmDongles, without requiring installation of CodeMeter Runtime.

The new automatic function encryption additionally enables modular licensing of individual program components without requiring changes to the source code.

With its expansion to native Windows binaries, AxProtector NC provides a unified solution for secure and efficient application protection across all Windows architectures.

■ AxProtector NC supports local CmDongle licensing without an installed CodeMeter Runtime, thanks to CPSRT with integrated CodeMeter Embedded.
■ CPSRT serves as a unified execution environment for .NET, Python, JavaScript, and native applications.
■ AxProtector NC already supported .NET, Python, JavaScript, Linux binaries, and CTP.
■ AxProtector NC version 11.80 supports Windows binaries for both Intel and ARM architectures.
■ All NC features are available, including Automatic Protection, Modular Licensing, Unbound Mode, CodeMoving, and File Encryption.

 

KEYnote 51 – Edition Spring/Summer 2026