After submitting your request, Microchip will email you the license file (usually named License.dat ). You can also download it directly from your portal. To install it:
Save the file to a secure, permanent directory on your local disk (e.g., C:\Microchip\Licenses\ ). Set your system environment variable to point to the file: LM_LICENSE_FILE or SNPSLMD_LICENSE_FILE
: This is a free license bundled with specific Microchip development kits. It unlocks specific larger target devices that are native to that hardware kit, allowing users to evaluate premium silicon without purchasing a full license. Supported Devices and Features
Microchip has strategically lowered the barrier to entry for its powerful FPGA design ecosystem. By providing free Silver and Evaluation licenses, engineers, students, and hobbyists have unprecedented access to professional-grade tools without an upfront investment. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can legally download, install, and license Microchip Libero SoC at zero cost, allowing you to build, simulate, and deploy designs on a wide range of supported FPGAs. While open-source toolchains offer interesting alternatives for general FPGA work, they cannot match the integration and comprehensive device support provided by Microchip's own Libero SoC suite. microchip libero license free
command to find the hardware (MAC) address of your network card. 3. How to Obtain the Silver License The process is handled through the microchipDIRECT 4 Libero® SoC Design Suite—Free Silver License
The Evaluation license is designed for exploration, academic usage, and early-stage prototyping.
If you are working on a project using Microchip FPGAs, let me know: Which or specific part number you plan to use? Whether you are developing on Windows or Linux ? After submitting your request, Microchip will email you
Some advanced IP cores (e.g., PCIe Gen2/Gen3 root complexes, 10G Ethernet MACs, high-speed memory controllers with ECC) require a Gold license to unlock the RTL source or remove low-performance watermarks.
While the free license offers a lot of power, it is not the same as the fully paid version.
Microchip often allows you to renew the free license before it expires, so you have no downtime. Set your system environment variable to point to
Libero SoC is a comprehensive, integrated tool suite designed for developing applications with Microchip's FPGA and SoC product families. This guide helps you understand the various license types, with a focus on the free "Silver" and "Evaluation" licenses, providing a clear path from download to deployment.
The is a temporary tier meant to let engineers evaluate the highest-end FPGAs and specialized IP blocks before purchasing a paid Gold or Platinum license. Validity: 60 days.
How to get a free/evaluation copy
The Evaluation license is designed for engineers looking to test Microchip’s latest flagship architectures before committing to hardware purchases. $0 Validity: 30 days