The protection key could not be found (hasp status 0).
When you see this error message when starting Pythagoras, it usually means that the Sentinel License Service on your computer is not running. As a result, Pythagoras cannot find the license — even though status code 0 normally indicates there’s no technical error.
The good news: this is easy to fix.
SOLUTION
Step 1: Locate the Sentinel service
Open Task Manager using the shortcut
Ctrl+Shift+Esc
Go to the Services tab → see 1 in the image
Look for 'hasplms' (Sentinel LDK License Manager) in the list → see 2 in the image
Right-click on hasplms and select Restart (or Start if that’s available) → see 3 in the image
Wait a few seconds for the service to start.
What if 'hasplms' doesn’t appear in the list?
That usually means the Sentinel license software is not (properly) installed.
Fully close Pythagoras
Download the latest Sentinel Runtime (driver) here:
https://www.pythagoras.net/content/uploads/sites/2/cpt-downloads/HASPUserSetup.exeRight-click the file and choose 'Run as administrator'
After installation, restart your computer
hasplms service should now appear in Task Manager and start automatically.
Step 2: Check if the license portal is working
Open your web browser
In the address bar, enter: http://localhost:1947
Press Enter
If you see the Sentinel Admin Control Center page with tabs like 'Sentinel Keys' and 'Products', then the service is working again.
Example:
Step 3: Restart Pythagoras
After completing these steps, the error message should no longer appear, and Pythagoras should launch as expected.
Still having issues?
Check whether your antivirus or firewall is blocking the service or port 1947
Restart your computer and try again
Still not working? Contact our support team — we’re happy to help. If needed, we can assist you via AnyDesk. Need help?
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