> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.monolithforensics.com/monolith/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.monolithforensics.com/monolith/deployment-and-security/on-premises-deployments/managing-licensing.md). # Managing Licensing Configure and update Monolith licensing for an on-premises deployment using an offline license token or online license key. On-premises Monolith licensing is configured through the `.env` file included with your Monolith deployment. Monolith supports two licensing methods: * **License Token:** Preferred method that supports both connected and offline environments * **License Key:** Online method that retrieves licensing information from the Monolith licensing service ### Where Your License Is Managed Your Monolith license configuration is stored in the `.env` file within your Monolith deployment directory. Two environment variables are used for licensing: ``` MONOLITH_LICENSE_KEY= MONOLITH_LICENSE_TOKEN= ``` When the Monolith server starts, it determines the active license using these values. If both values are present, **MONOLITH\_LICENSE\_TOKEN takes precedence**. {% hint style="info" %} Treat license keys and tokens as sensitive configuration values and avoid sharing the contents of your `.env` file unnecessarily. {% endhint %} ### Monolith License Token The **Monolith License Token** is the preferred licensing method for on-premises deployments. A License Token is a securely signed value containing the licensing information for your Monolith environment. This method: * Works in environments with internet access * Works in offline or air-gapped environments * Does not require Monolith to contact the online licensing service during normal operation * Allows the Monolith deployment to remain licensed during internet or external service interruptions When Monolith starts, the server derives the applicable license information directly from the token. #### License Token Renewal License Tokens are tied to your Monolith subscription and expire according to the applicable renewal period. A refreshed token must be provided when the current token expires. To request a new License Token, contact . ### Monolith License Key The **Monolith License Key** is a shorter unique value associated with your Monolith customer account. When this licensing method is used, Monolith contacts the online licensing service to retrieve the applicable licensing information. {% hint style="warning" %} License Key licensing requires internet connectivity and is not suitable for air-gapped environments. {% endhint %} For environments without reliable internet access, use a **Monolith License Token** instead. ### Update Your License To update an existing on-premises license: 1. Locate the `.env` file in your Monolith deployment directory. 2. Replace the existing `MONOLITH_LICENSE_TOKEN` or `MONOLITH_LICENSE_KEY` value with the new value provided by Monolith. 3. Save the `.env` file. 4. Restart the Monolith Docker deployment. Run the following commands: ``` docker compose down docker compose up -d ``` Run these commands from the directory containing the `.env` and `docker-compose.yml` files. After the containers restart, Monolith will load the updated licensing information. ### Troubleshooting Licensing If the updated license is not recognized, confirm that: * The License Token or License Key was copied completely * The value was entered on the correct line in the `.env` file * There are no unintended spaces or characters in the value * The Monolith containers were restarted after the change * `MONOLITH_LICENSE_TOKEN` is not unintentionally overriding `MONOLITH_LICENSE_KEY` * Internet access is available if using License Key licensing If the issue continues, contact . ### Related Documentation * [**On-Premises Deployments**](/monolith/deployment-and-security/on-premises-deployments.md) * [**Monolith Containers (Docker)**](/monolith/deployment-and-security/on-premises-deployments/monolith-containers-docker.md) * [**Deployment**](/monolith/deployment-and-security/on-premises-deployments/deployment.md) * [**Updates**](/monolith/deployment-and-security/on-premises-deployments/updates.md)