Like all commercial software, Metasploit Pro requires a valid license to operate. Metasploit is licensed as a subscription, which allows you to use the application as long as the subscription is active. Your license key determines the commercial edition you can access, the number of days remaining on the license, and the number of users allowed to use Metasploit at any given time.

Ensure you did not rename the downloaded .lic file. Metasploit Pro looks for specific file signatures. Redownload the file from the Rapid7 portal if the upload fails repeatedly. Expired Request File

After successful activation, the License Details section should display:

If you'd like to streamline your air-gapped setup further, let me know:

Transfer the bundle to your air-gapped system via your secure USB process.

: The activation file is cryptographically signed by Rapid7. The local Metasploit Pro instance verifies this signature using a built-in public key. If the signature is invalid (e.g., file tampered with or corrupted), activation fails. This prevents the use of forged or modified activation files.