Kepware FlexNet Publisher removal

[SL_SCADA]

We have identified the FlexNet publisher installed automatically with the Kepware install as a cyber vulnerability and want to remove it. 

We have KEPServer EX6 v6.6.350.0 installed. It is using a lic file for licencing.

Can the FNPLicencingService application in C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Macrovision Shared\FlexNet Publisher be removed without impacting the running of the KepWare application?

[ntripathi]

Greetings @SL_SCADA ,

I hope this message finds you well.

I am writing to inform you that removing the FNPLicensingService.exe (FlexNet Publisher Licensing Service) from your system will directly impact the licensing functionality of KEPServerEX.

FlexNet Publisher is a critical component required for the proper licensing and operation of KEPServerEX. It must remain installed and running on the Kepware machine at all times to ensure uninterrupted product functionality.

If you have any questions or need assistance regarding this, please feel free to reach out.

[pshashipreetham · Accepted solution]

Hi, 

You can’t remove the FlexNet Publisher (FNPLicensingService.exe) component from the system if KEPServerEX is using it for licensing. It’s a required service that handles license validation. If you remove or disable it, KEPServerEX will lose its license and cease to function.

If you need to eliminate the FlexNet component due to security policies, the only option is to migrate your Kepware setup to a licensing model that doesn’t rely on FlexNet (for example, by using a newer version or a different license method, if available from PTC). Otherwise, FlexNet must stay installed and running for the server to function.

Thanks,