> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://dronebridge.gitbook.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://dronebridge.gitbook.io/docs/dronebridge-for-esp32-drone-light-show-edition/license.md).

# License

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This page applies only to the **Drone Light Show Edition (DLSE)** of DroneBridge for ESP32. The general open-source DroneBridge for ESP32 release does not use this commercial license flow.
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## How to Obtain a License

To use DLSE in a real drone show deployment, you must register an account and activate each ESP32 individually.

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**Register at drone-bridge.com**

Create your DLSE user account at <https://drone-bridge.com/dlse/>.
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**Buy license credits**

After registration, open the DLSE user dashboard and purchase the number of license credits you need. DLSE licenses are sold on a prepaid basis.
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**Activate each ESP32**

Use the dashboard or a supported activation workflow to activate your DLSE firmware for a specific ESP32. One license credit activates one ESP32.
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**License becomes bound to that hardware**

After activation, the license is locked to that specific ESP32 hardware. The activated device can then run DLSE without the 10-minute TRIAL limitation.
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## License Types

The Drone Light Show Edition of DroneBridge for ESP32 (DLSE) knows the following license types:

* TRIAL
* EVALUATION
* ACTIVATED

All installed DLSE licenses work offline. An internet connection is only required when you purchase a license, activate a device, or re-generate a license file for the same hardware.

<table><thead><tr><th width="141">License Type</th><th>Description and Terms</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>TRIAL</td><td>Free default state after flashing. The telemetry stream is stopped after 10 minutes of ESP32 operation. <strong>You will lose connection via the ESP32.</strong><br>For setup, testing, and evaluation only.</td></tr><tr><td>EVALUATION</td><td>Free license for testing on a specific ESP32. It removes the firmware restrictions until its defined end date.<br>After expiry, it behaves like a TRIAL license.<br>For testing and evaluation only.</td></tr><tr><td>ACTIVATED</td><td>Paid license for one ESP32. It has no expiration date after activation.<br>Locked to a specific ESP32 at activation time.<br>Intended for commercial use.</td></tr></tbody></table>

## Important Notes

* License credits are stored in your account until you redeem them by activating an ESP32.
* Unredeemed license credits do not expire as long as your account remains active and in good standing.
* One activation consumes one license credit and binds that activation to one specific ESP32.
* The DLSE firmware on the ESP32 does not need an internet connection for normal operation after activation.
* A full erase of the ESP32 flash removes the locally stored license. You can re-generate a replacement license file for the same hardware without buying another credit.

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Update or install licenses only while the drone is disarmed. This matches the DLSE safety guidance and helps avoid unexpected behavior.
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## Terms & Conditions

For the legally binding commercial terms, always refer to the official [Terms & Conditions for DLSE](https://drone-bridge.com/termsconditions/).