If your Beyond Compare 4 license key has been revoked or you're facing issues with it, here are some steps and considerations:
If you have recently attempted to open Beyond Compare 4 (BC4) only to be greeted by a message stating that your license key has been revoked, you are not alone. This has become a widespread issue for users who acquired the software through unofficial channels.
Here is a breakdown of why this is happening, the software’s licensing model, and how to resolve it legitimately.
| Option | Details | |--------|---------| | Purchase a license | Standard license is ~$60 USD, includes 1 year of updates. | | Extend trial | After 30 days, you can continue with a nag screen (no pro features). | | Switch to free alternatives | WinMerge (Windows), Meld (Linux/macOS), KDiff3 (cross-platform). | | Request a free license | Open source maintainers can ask Scooter for a free key. |
There is a common misconception that Beyond Compare 4 was supposed to be free. This is incorrect. Beyond Compare is commercial software.
However, there is a legitimate way to use it for free if you do not need the advanced features:
The "free" license keys for Beyond Compare 4 that were circulating online were not legitimate freebies; they were leaked corporate keys that have now been blacklisted by the developer. To continue using the software reliably, users are encouraged to either purchase a license or utilize the limited free functionality provided by the official software.
If your Beyond Compare 4 license key has been revoked, it usually means the key was associated with a shared, leaked, or unauthorized batch. Below are the legitimate ways to resolve this and regain access to the software. Legitimate Fixes for Revoked Licenses
Verify the Source: If you purchased a key from a third-party reseller that wasn't authorized, the key may have been revoked. Scooter Software recommends purchasing directly from the Official Scooter Software Shop to ensure your key is valid.
Recover a Lost Legitimate Key: If you have a legitimate license but the software is no longer accepting it, you can Retrieve a Replacement Key by logging into your account or contacting support with your 8-digit serial number.
Remove Invalid License Data: Sometimes local cached data causes errors. You can manually remove the invalid license file to return the software to trial mode:
Windows: Delete the BC4Key.txt file located in %appdata%\scooter software\beyond compare 4\.
Linux: Delete the key file at /etc/BC4Key.txt or in your user program folder.
Standard vs. Pro Editions: Ensure your key matches the edition you have installed. You can toggle between Standard and Pro modes in the Help > About Beyond Compare window to see if your key works for a specific version. Official Trial Options
If you cannot afford a license immediately, Beyond Compare offers a generous trial period:
30-Day Evaluation: The software includes a 30-day fully functional trial.
Flexible Trial Days: Unlike many other programs, Beyond Compare only counts the days you actually use the software toward the 30-day limit. Warning on "Free" License Keys Scooter Software - Home of Beyond Compare
If you see a message stating your Beyond Compare 4 license key has been revoked,
it typically means the key has been flagged as leaked or misused
. While there are no legitimate ways to get a permanent license for free beyond the standard 30-day evaluation, here is how you can resolve the issue or legally continue your work: Why was my key revoked? Leaked Keys
: If a purchased key is shared publicly on the internet, the developer ( Scooter Software ) will revoke it to prevent widespread unauthorized use. Version Mismatch
: Some users encounter errors when using an older version's key for a newer major release, though minor updates (e.g., 4.x to 4.y) are always free. Subscription/Trial Expiration
: Evaluation keys or certain enterprise licenses may have built-in expiration dates. Beyond Compare How to Fix Revocation Issues Contact Support
: If you believe your legitimate, purchased key was revoked in error, email support@scootersoftware.com
with your original order details or serial number to request a replacement. Verify the Entire Key : Ensure you are copying the entire block, including the --BEGIN LICENSE KEY-- --END LICENSE KEY-- lines, as partial keys will fail. Clean Installation : Sometimes old, invalid key files block new registrations. BC4Key.txt %appdata%\Scooter Software\Beyond Compare 4\ : Remove the license file from
/Users/[username]/Library/Application Support/Beyond Compare/ ~/.config/bcompare/BC4Key.txt Legal Free Options 30-Day Evaluation
: Beyond Compare offers a generous "evaluated" trial that only counts the days you actually use the program. Free Minor Updates
: If you own a Version 4 license, it works for all subsequent 4.x.x releases forever. Beyond Compare License Agreement - Beyond Compare
A "revoked" license key in Beyond Compare 4 typically indicates that the key has been flagged by Scooter Software as compromised, often because it was leaked to the internet
. This can happen if a legitimately purchased key is shared or if a pirated key is used. Common Causes for Revocation Key Leakage
: If a purchased key appears on public forums or gist repositories, Scooter Software may blacklist it in newer updates License Breach License Agreement
allows Scooter Software to terminate an agreement immediately if they believe the terms have been breached. Upgrade Issues : Sometimes, upgrading the software can cause the BC4Key.txt file to be deleted
or corrupted, leading the app to revert to trial mode or show errors. Beyond Compare Potential Solutions
If you are facing a "license key revoked" message, you can try these steps based on common community and official advice: Re-enter a Valid Key Delete the existing license file ( BC4Key.txt ) to reset the registration state. On Windows, this is typically located in %appdata%\Scooter Software\Beyond Compare 4\ Open Beyond Compare, go to Help > Enter Key , and paste your entire official key (including the Contact Official Support
If you purchased your license and believe it was revoked in error, email support@scootersoftware.com with your original order information or serial number. Reset Trial/Evaluation Mode
If you are testing the software and your trial expired or is bugged, you can sometimes restore trial mode by renaming the BC4Key.txt file BC4Key.bak while the application is closed. Community Workarounds (Advanced) Some users on platforms like GitHub have shared scripts to reset trial status
by deleting specific registry keys or configuration files (e.g., in the Windows registry). between the Standard and Pro editions? Beyond Compare 4 license for Windows, Mac, Linux · GitHub 6 Jan 2023 —
When using Beyond Compare 4, encountering a "license key has been revoked" message can be a significant disruption. This typically happens when a key is leaked publicly or if you are attempting to use a key for a different major version of the software. Common Causes for Revoked Licenses beyond compare 4 license key has been revoked free
Key Leakage: If a purchased license key is shared on public forums or gists, the developer (Scooter Software) may revoke it to prevent unauthorized use.
Version Mismatch: Beyond Compare licenses are for specific major versions. A license key for Version 3 or Version 5 will not work for Version 4.
Pirated Keys: Using "free" keys found on the internet often leads to revocation once the software performs a routine check. How to Fix a Revoked License Message
If you own a legitimate license and believe the revocation is an error, follow these steps:
Locate Your Official Key: Ensure you are not accidentally using a leaked key. You can find your official key by logging into your account on the Scooter Software website or by requesting a replacement copy.
Remove the Invalid Key: You must delete the existing license file to clear the error.
Windows: Delete %appdata%\Scooter Software\Beyond Compare 4\BC4Key.txt.
MacOS: Delete the key file typically located in ~/Library/Application Support/Beyond Compare/.
Re-enter the Key: Open Beyond Compare and go to Help > Enter Key to paste your legitimate license information. Legal and Free Alternatives
Instead of searching for "free" revoked keys, consider these options: Beyond Compare 4 license for Windows, Mac, Linux · GitHub
If you encounter a "revoked" message for a Beyond Compare 4 license key, it typically indicates that the specific key has been leaked publicly or flagged as pirated. Why Keys Are Revoked
Public Leakage: When a legitimate key is found on public forums or gist repositories, the developer, Scooter Software, may revoke it to prevent unauthorized use.
Pirated Versions: If you are using a key obtained from a "free" license site, it is likely a shared key that has already been deactivated.
Version Incompatibility: A common error occurs when users try to use a major version key (e.g., version 4) for a different major version (e.g., version 5). All license keys are major version specific. Buy Beyond Compare
The Hidden Cost of "Free": Understanding the Revocation of Beyond Compare 4 Keys
In the ecosystem of software development and IT management, few tools are as revered as Scooter Software’s Beyond Compare. Known for its robust file comparison, folder synchronization, and merge capabilities, it is a staple utility for professionals worldwide. However, a frequent topic of discussion on forums and tech support boards in recent years has been the sudden deactivation of "free" license keys for the older version, Beyond Compare 4. Users often wake up to find their software disabled with a message stating the license key has been revoked. While this has caused frustration for many, the revocation of these keys highlights a critical lesson about the nature of software licensing, security, and the sustainability of independent software development.
To understand why keys are revoked, one must first understand the economics of software. Beyond Compare is developed by Scooter Software, a relatively small, independent company. Unlike tech giants that can afford to offer free tools subsidized by advertising or data collection, Scooter Software relies entirely on the sale of licenses to pay for development, server maintenance, and support staff. When users search for "free license keys" online, they are rarely finding a legitimate giveaway. Instead, they are almost always encountering keys that have been stolen, cracked, or generated by illicit key-generators. The revocation of these keys is not an act of malice by the developer, but a necessary defensive measure to protect their business model.
The technical reason behind the revocation usually stems from volume license abuse. Legitimate companies purchase "volume licenses"—single keys that allow for the installation of the software on a specific number of machines. Cybercriminals often steal these keys or reverse-engineer the algorithm used to create them. They then distribute these keys widely on "warez" sites or YouTube tutorials promising "free software." When a single key is used by tens of thousands of people across the globe, it triggers fraud detection systems. Scooter Software identifies the anomaly—a single license being used on 5,000 distinct IP addresses, for example—and identifies the key as compromised. Consequently, the key is added to a blocklist (revoked), and every installation relying on that key stops working.
For the end-user, the revocation of a key is an immediate inconvenience. A tool they relied upon for daily work suddenly becomes inaccessible. However, this frustration often stems from a misunderstanding of what it means to "own" software. Most software is sold under a license agreement, which is essentially a rental contract. If the terms are violated—such as by using a stolen key—the contract is void. Furthermore, relying on revoked keys poses significant security risks. The same websites and software cracks that provide these free keys are often vectors for malware. By bypassing legitimate payment channels, users are exposing their systems to potential ransomware, keyloggers, or trojans, putting their personal data at risk far beyond the value of the software itself.
Ultimately, the revocation of Beyond Compare 4 keys serves as a reality check for the digital age. While the allure of "free" software is powerful, it ignores the reality that software development requires resources. Scooter Software offers a trial period for users to test the product, after which they are expected to purchase a license. The transition to the newer Beyond Compare 5 has seen the implementation of more robust subscription models, partly in response to the piracy issues of the past.
In conclusion, the revocation of Beyond Compare 4 license keys is not a random error, but a calculated enforcement of intellectual property rights. It serves as a reminder that software, like any other tool, has value. While the immediate result may be a non-functional application for the user, the broader implication is the preservation of a software ecosystem where developers are compensated for their work. The true cost of "free" software found on piracy sites is often paid later, through revoked access, lack of updates, and compromised security. Supporting developers through legitimate purchases ensures that the tools we rely on continue to exist, improve, and remain secure.
The Frustrating Experience of a Revoked License Key
It was a typical Monday morning for John, a freelance web developer. He had a deadline to meet and was relying on his trusty software, Beyond Compare 4, to compare and merge code files for his client. As he booted up his computer and launched the application, he was greeted with a shocking message: "Your license key has been revoked."
Panic set in as John tried to understand what was happening. He had purchased the software a few years ago and had been using it without any issues. He checked his email and found no notification from the software vendor, Scooter Software, about any revocation. He tried to launch the application again, but the same message persisted.
John visited the Scooter Software website, searching for answers. He found a support page that mentioned license revocation due to "abuse or non-payment." But John knew he had paid for the software and had not violated any terms. He submitted a support ticket, hoping for a quick resolution.
Days went by, and John heard nothing back. His deadline was looming, and he couldn't afford to delay the project. He tried to find alternative software, but Beyond Compare 4 was an essential tool for his work. He felt frustrated and helpless, unable to access the software he relied on.
The Search for a Solution
Desperate for a solution, John turned to online forums and communities. He found a few threads discussing similar issues with revoked license keys, but no concrete solutions. Some users suggested purchasing a new license, but John was hesitant to pay again for a software that had been working fine until now.
One forum post mentioned a possible workaround: using a older version of Beyond Compare, which might still work with the revoked license key. John tried downloading an older version, but it didn't work seamlessly with his current operating system.
As the deadline drew near, John began to explore free alternatives to Beyond Compare 4. He discovered a few open-source tools that offered similar functionality, but they were not as polished or user-friendly. He spent hours migrating his workflow to the new tools, but it was a painful process.
The Revival
Just when John thought all hope was lost, he received an email from Scooter Software's support team. They had investigated the issue and discovered that the revocation was an error on their part. His license key was reinstated, and he could use Beyond Compare 4 once again.
Overjoyed, John thanked the support team and quickly launched the application. Everything worked as expected, and he was able to complete his project on time. He realized that even with a revoked license key, there were alternatives and workarounds, but it was the support team's timely resolution that saved the day.
From then on, John made sure to keep a closer eye on his software licenses and appreciate the importance of reliable customer support. He continued to use Beyond Compare 4, grateful for the tool that had become an essential part of his development workflow.
It sounds like you’re seeing a notification that your Beyond Compare 4
license key has been revoked. This usually happens if a key found online has been flagged as unauthorized or shared publicly [1, 2].
If you are looking for a reliable way to keep using the software, here are your best options: 1. Check Your Original Purchase If your Beyond Compare 4 license key has
If you or your company actually bought a license, the key might have been revoked by mistake or replaced during an upgrade. Retrieve a lost key: Scooter Software License Retrieval tool to have your official key emailed to you. Check version compatibility: A version 3 key won't work in version 4. You may need to upgrade your license at a discount. 2. Extend the Evaluation Period Beyond Compare has a very generous trial policy. It offers 30 "days of use"
, meaning the timer only counts down on days you actually open the app. If your trial has expired and you just need to finish a quick task, you can often reach out to their support for a temporary extension. 3. Best Free Alternatives
If a paid license isn't an option right now, these open-source tools offer similar file and folder comparison features for free: WinMerge (Windows):
The most popular free alternative for folder syncing and text differencing. Meld (Linux/Windows/macOS): A great visual diff tool often used by developers. DiffMerge (Cross-platform): Highly accurate for comparing and merging files.
Be cautious of "crack" sites or "free key" generators. These files often contain keyloggers that can compromise your personal data [2].
A "revoked" license key error in Beyond Compare 4 typically occurs when a key has been leaked to the internet or shared publicly. Once a key is identified as pirated or compromised, Scooter Software revokes it to prevent unauthorized use. Primary Reasons for Revocation
Key Leaks: If a legitimate key is found on public forums or "free key" websites, it is added to a revocation list in subsequent software updates.
Version Mismatch: While not strictly "revoked," using a major version key (e.g., version 3) for a newer major version (e.g., version 4 or 5) will result in an error.
Policy Violations: Use of the software beyond the 30-day trial without a valid purchase is a violation of copyright laws. How to Resolve the Error
If you are a legitimate license holder and receiving this message:
Verify Your Key: Ensure you are using the full key text from --BEGIN LICENSE KEY-- to --END LICENSE KEY--.
Contact Support: Email Scooter Software Support with your serial number or order email to recover your official key.
Clear Local Data: If you accidentally used a pirated key and want to enter a legitimate one, you may need to delete the local license file (BC4Key.txt) to reset the registration dialog.
Windows: %appdata%\Scooter Software\Beyond Compare 4\BC4Key.txt. Linux: /etc/BC4Key.txt. Legitimate Free Use Buy Beyond Compare
Beyond Compare may be evaluated for free, but a license must be purchased for continued use. Beyond Compare Howto remove License - Scooter Forums - Beyond Compare
A "license key has been revoked" error in Beyond Compare 4 typically occurs because the key was leaked to the internet or flagged as a pirated key.
If you are seeing this message, it is usually because the software's verification system has identified the specific key as being used by unauthorized users globally. Why This Happens
Key Leaking: If a purchased license key is shared publicly on forums or GitHub, Scooter Software may revoke it to prevent unauthorized use.
Version Mismatch: While minor updates (e.g., 4.1 to 4.3) are free, major upgrades (e.g., version 4 to version 5) require a new key. Using an old key on a newer major version can sometimes trigger errors.
Pirated Software: If you downloaded a "free" version from a third-party site, the included key may have already been blacklisted by the developer. How to Resolve It
Contact Support: If you are a legitimate owner and believe your key was revoked in error, email support@scootersoftware.com with your original order email or serial number to request a replacement.
Purchase a Legitimate License: Beyond Compare is a one-time purchase with no annual fees. You can buy a Standard Edition for $35 or a Pro Edition for $70 at the Beyond Compare Shop.
Evaluate for Free: If you need to use the software temporarily, you can use the 30-day fully functional trial to evaluate the product before buying. Summary of Pricing (Current as of April 2026) License Type Quantity 1 - 4 Major Upgrade Standard Edition $35 / user ~Half Price Pro Edition $70 / user ~Half Price
Do you have your original order number or serial number to help support verify your purchase? Buy Beyond Compare
When Beyond Compare 4 displays a "license key has been revoked" error, it typically means the key has been flagged by Scooter Software because it was leaked to the internet or associated with unauthorized distribution Why Keys Are Revoked Public Exposure:
If a privately purchased key is shared on public forums or GitHub gists, the developer blacklists that serial number in newer software updates. Version Mismatch:
While Beyond Compare 4 keys work for all minor updates (e.g., 4.1 to 4.4), they will not work for major version jumps (e.g., upgrading from version 4 to version 5). License Breach: License Agreement
allows the developer to terminate keys immediately if they believe the agreement has been breached. Beyond Compare How to Resolve the Error
If you are a legitimate license holder seeing this message, do not seek "free" workarounds, as these often involve scripts that reset trial timers rather than fixing the license itself. Contact Support: support@scootersoftware.com
with your original order email or serial number. They can often issue a new, secure key if yours was compromised. Clear Old License Data:
Sometimes an old, invalid key is "stuck" in the system. You can manually remove it by deleting the BC4Key.txt file found in: %AppData%\Scooter Software\Beyond Compare 4\ /etc/BC4Key.txt or within your user config folder. Evaluate via Trial: If you don't have a valid key, the software offers a 30-day fully functional trial . Note that the trial only counts days of actual use , not consecutive calendar days. Beyond Compare Risks of "Free" License Keys Using keys found on public repositories (like GitHub Gists
) is the primary reason for revocation. These keys are eventually detected by the software's update mechanism, leading to the "revoked" error and potentially exposing your system to security risks from unverified scripts. Beyond Compare 4 license for Windows, Mac, Linux · GitHub
If your Beyond Compare 4 license key has been revoked or is showing as invalid, it is likely due to the key being flagged for misuse or because the software has reverted to evaluation mode after a trial period. Beyond Compare is not free software; it is proprietary and requires a paid license for continued use after its 30-day evaluation period. Common Reasons for Revoked or Invalid Keys
Misused or Leaked Keys: Scooter Software may terminate a license agreement if they believe the license terms have been breached, such as a private key being shared publicly online.
Version Mismatch: A license key for an older version (e.g., Version 3) will not work for Beyond Compare 4.
Copy-Paste Errors: Ensure the entire key string is copied, including the "--BEGIN--" and "--END--" markers, without extra whitespace.
Trial Expiration: Once the 30-day "grace period" expires, the software will stop running or revert to trial mode until a valid key is entered. How to Restore Your License Buy Beyond Compare Reasons for Revocation : License keys can be
The prompt "Beyond Compare 4 license key has been revoked free" usually points toward a frustrating moment: you’ve tried using a "free" key found online, only to have the software identify it as illegitimate and disable your access. While it is tempting to hunt for a workaround, Why Your License Key Was Revoked
Beyond Compare 4, developed by Scooter Software, uses a "blacklist" system. When a license key is leaked publicly on a forum or "crack" site, the developers add that specific key to a database of revoked IDs.
When your software checks in (either during an update or a periodic validation), it sees that the key is flagged as stolen or unauthorized. This results in the "License key has been revoked" error message, effectively locking the pro features. The Risks of Using "Free" Online Keys
Searching for "cracked" keys or "keygen" tools for Beyond Compare isn't just about the software not working; it’s about your digital safety:
Malware & Ransomware: Most sites offering "free" keys bundle their downloads with malicious scripts. You might get the software to work, but you could also be handing over your data to a keylogger.
No Updates: Beyond Compare 4 is frequently updated to handle new file formats and security patches. A revoked or cracked version cannot be updated, leaving you with a buggy, outdated tool.
Unstable Performance: Cracked versions often suffer from crashes or "check-sum" errors during file comparisons, which defeats the purpose of a precision tool. Legitimate Ways to Use Beyond Compare for Free
If you aren't ready to buy, you don't need to resort to shady keys. Scooter Software offers one of the most generous trial policies in the industry:
The "Literal" 30-Day Trial: Unlike other software where the trial expires 30 days after installation, Beyond Compare’s trial only counts the days you actually use it. If you use it once a week, the trial could last you well over six months.
Trial Reset: If your trial expires and you have a legitimate reason to Best Free Alternatives to Beyond Compare
If your license was revoked and you cannot afford a seat, don't risk your security. Switch to a high-quality, open-source alternative:
WinMerge (Windows): The gold standard for free, open-source file comparison. It handles folder syncing and text merging brilliantly.
Meld (Linux/Windows/Mac): A visual diff and merge tool targeted at developers. It’s clean, simple, and completely free.
DiffMerge: A powerful tool for comparing and merging files across Windows, macOS, and Linux. Final Verdict
A "revoked" license message is a sign that the "free" shortcut has reached a dead end. To maintain a professional and secure workflow, your best bet is to either utilize the 30-day "actual use" trial, purchase a legitimate license (which is a one-time fee, not a subscription), or transition to WinMerge.
Beyond Compare 4 License Key Revoked: A Cautionary Tale
I recently encountered an issue with Beyond Compare 4, a file comparison tool that I have relied on for years. The problem started when I received a notification that my license key had been revoked. I was taken aback, as I had purchased the software and had been using it legitimately.
The Issue
After some research, I found that I was not alone in this issue. Several users have reported similar experiences, with some even claiming that the revocation was done without any valid reason. It appears that the company behind Beyond Compare, Scooter Software, has a strict policy regarding license key usage.
The Impact
The revocation of my license key effectively rendered the software useless. I was no longer able to use the tool to compare files, which significantly impacted my productivity. As a power user, I rely on Beyond Compare to manage and synchronize my files across multiple devices.
The Workaround
To resolve the issue, I had to reach out to Scooter Software's support team, which eventually helped me to reactivate my license key. However, this experience left a sour taste, and I was disappointed by the lack of clear communication regarding the revocation.
The Verdict
While Beyond Compare 4 is an excellent file comparison tool, the license key revocation issue raises concerns about the company's policies and customer support. Until this issue is resolved, I would caution users to be aware of the potential risks.
Rating: 4/5
Pros:
Cons:
Recommendation:
If you're in the market for a file comparison tool, Beyond Compare 4 remains a great option. However, be aware of the potential risks associated with license key revocation. Make sure to carefully review the company's policies and terms of service before making a purchase. Additionally, consider using alternative tools that offer more flexible licensing options.
Alternatives:
Ultimately, I hope that Scooter Software will revisit their license key policies and provide more transparent communication with their customers. Until then, users should exercise caution when using Beyond Compare 4.
Beyond Compare 4 is a popular software tool used for comparing and synchronizing files and folders. It's widely used by developers, IT professionals, and anyone who needs to manage and compare files and directories. However, obtaining a license key through unauthorized means, such as seeking a "free" or "revoked" license key, is not recommended as it can lead to legal and security issues.
For a long time, this leaked key continued to work. However, modern software activation relies on server-side verification. Scooter Software eventually identified that this specific key was being used by thousands of IP addresses across the globe—far more than a legitimate site license would account for.
When a Volume License is abused, the publisher has the right to revoke it. In a recent crackdown, Scooter Software blacklisted that specific key. When the application "phones home" to verify the license, the server now responds that the key is invalid or revoked.
Is this legal? Yes. The End User License Agreement (EULA) strictly prohibits sharing keys or using keys that do not belong to you. The revocation is a standard anti-piracy measure.