This error is one of the most frustrating roadblocks for automation engineers using Siemens WinCC (TIA Portal). It indicates a mismatch between what your project demands and what your license authorizes. This article will dissect exactly why this error occurs, how to identify the missing license, and the step-by-step solutions to restore your logging functionality.
You’ve just finished configuring your HMI project in TIA Portal. You’ve set up data logs, historical trends, and message archives. You hit "Start Runtime," but instead of seeing your data stream smoothly, you are greeted by a dreaded system message:
If you are running a Siemens TIA Portal HMI project and encounter the popup message your logging features have stopped working. This error occurs because WinCC Runtime Advanced requires a specific, separate license to archive data, separate from the standard runtime license. This error is one of the most frustrating
In WinCC Runtime Advanced (PC-based), the licensing model differs from Comfort or Basic Panels: Siemens SiePortal Standard License:
Encountering the warning is a common hurdle when deploying SCADA and HMI systems using Siemens TIA Portal. While many engineers assume that the base SIMATIC WinCC Runtime Advanced license covers all functions, Siemens separates its licensing features. Simply put, if your HMI or SCADA project utilizes Tag Logging (for historical data) or Alarm Logging , the base runtime license is insufficient . You are required to purchase and install an additional, specific license key: WinCC Logging for Runtime Advanced . You’ve just finished configuring your HMI project in
if they were accidentally checked, as these can also trigger logging license requirements. Siemens SiePortal 3. Simulation and Testing Ignore During Simulation
Run the WinCC License Analysis by right-clicking the WinCC Runtime icon in the system tray. This will highlight exactly which missing license is triggering the message. 2. Verify status in Automation License Manager (ALM) This error occurs because WinCC Runtime Advanced requires
The ALM is the central tool for managing all Siemens software licenses.