If the software is locked and won't let you overwrite the bad key, you can manually clear the stored license data to revert the software back to evaluation/trial mode or input a fresh, valid key: On Windows: Close Beyond Compare. %APPDATA%\Scooter Software\Beyond Compare 4\
Sometimes, residual registry keys or license files prevent Beyond Compare from accepting a new, valid key even after you try to change it. You can manually purge the old license data. Close Beyond Compare 4 entirely. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Choose the Standard Edition if you only need basic text and folder comparison. Choose the Pro Edition if you require advanced features like 3-way merging, source control integration, and SFTP support.
If you are a legitimate buyer but lost your original credentials after an automated cleanup or registry fix, do not look for public keys. Visit the official Scooter Software Lost Key Lookup page.
Why Your Beyond Compare 4 License Key Was Revoked and How to Fix It beyond compare 4 license key has been revoked
There are several primary reasons why a license key gets blacklisted and revoked: 1. The Key Was Leaked on Public Forums or Warez Sites
First, let’s clear up a fundamental misconception.
Beyond Compare licenses have specific limits based on the purchase type (e.g., single-user, multi-user, or site license). If a single-user key is detected across dozens of different networks or unique hardware profiles simultaneously, the system flags it for abuse. Similarly, if you obtained your key from a "free license key" generator or a crack site, you are using a known pirated key that has already been blacklisted. 3. Refunded or Upgraded Licenses
If you have a legitimate purchase but your key is still showing as revoked, do not panic. Scooter Software offers several ways to recover or replace your license: If the software is locked and won't let
The inbound/outbound rules you created earlier should remain active indefinitely. Beyond Compare doesn't need internet access to function properly—file comparisons and folder synchronization work perfectly offline.
Look for emails from scootersoftware.com to find your original license block.
A more precise approach involves editing specific XML files rather than wiping everything. This preserves your customizations while clearing the revocation flag.
Licenses are further categorized by platform: Windows, macOS, Linux, or multi‑platform. A per‑user license allows one person to install the software on multiple computers they personally use. Close Beyond Compare 4 entirely
Create outbound rule
Type ~/Library/Application Support/Beyond Compare 4/ and hit Enter. Delete the BC4Key.txt file. Method 3: Purchase a Legitimate License
For users employing cracked versions or registry-generated keys, this is the software's anti-piracy mechanism kicking in. But even legitimate users with valid licenses can trigger this error. Sometimes, a simple network interruption or corrupted local cache file can confuse the software into thinking your key has been revoked.