Houdini Activation + Installation Steps

Instructions

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Step 1:

Check your inbox for an invitation from SideFX to activate a new account.

This account will be created for you and is associated with your ECU email address.

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Step 2:

Download the Houdini Launcher app for macOS, Windows or Linux here.

You must be signed into your new SideFX account to access the download.

Step 3:

Install and open the Houdini Launcher app and then click Log In.

The log in process will launch your default browser, and prompt you to sign in.  If you experience issues completing this step with Safari, please change your default browser to Chrome.

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Step 4:

From Houdini Launcher, click Install and choose Houdini Production Build.

Select the default installation options, including License Server. (*to be confirmed by instructor)

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Step 5:

Once the install completes, use the Launcher to open Houdini.

You will immediately experience a license pop up window.

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Step 6:

At the license pop up select the following option:

I have paid for a license and want to use SideFX as my License Server. 

Please note you must have an active Internet connection to complete this step.  

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Step 7: 

The License Administrator window will open automatically.

Or select Licenses and then License Administrator from the Houdini Launcher main screen.

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Step 8: 

From License Administrator select File > Change License Server. 

On macOS, the File menu will be pinned to the top of your screen.

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Step 9:

Complete the following changes

• In the bottom section, click the [+] button to add www.sidefx.com (SideFX Login Server)
• In the top section, use the [x] button to remove local host, so that only www.sidefx.com remains.
• Click Accept to complete the process.

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Step 10: 

Houdini is now licensed and ready to launch!