What is a Virtual Dongle and How to Create One?

Feb 15, 2022

A virtual dongle refers to a software program intended to virtualize the security dongle key. The virtual version of a dongle permits access to programs that use dongles, eliminating the need for a physical hardware key for the required program.

Dongles are usually included in top-tier specialized programs like high-quality audio and video software, CAD (computer-aided design) software. To run such programs, you have to plug in a physical security key to your PC. Otherwise, the software will be inaccessible.

When it comes to how to make a virtual USB dongle, dedicated software is required. And here is one of the best solutions out there - the software called Donglify.

Create virtual USB dongle with Donglify

Donglify

Being a one-stop solution, Donglify allows creating a virtual USB dongle and forwarding it over the network. This means the dongle functionality can be easily shared with remote users, no matter their location.

Donglify is a really handy tool, especially for traveling computer users. Using it, there is no longer a need to carry several portable keys for multiple programs. Among other things, a virtual dongle also helps to avoid the original key being damaged, stolen, or lost.

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Virtual USB dongles can be accessed on other remote PCs (client computers) as long as they are logged into the same Donglify account as the computer with a physically attached security key (server computer). In addition, you also need to install Donglify on the PC that your USB key is physically connected to and the machine from which you want to access it remotely.

How to make virtual USB dongle

1

To get started, create the Donglify account. Then download and install the application on the computer with the dongle physically attached to it (so-called server) and on the client machines that require remote access to that shared dongle.

2

Next, launch Donglify on the server computer and log in using your account credentials.

3

In the window that opens, click “+” to display a list of the shareable local USB keys.

You'll see the "Multiple-connect" or "Single-connect" text boxes next to the USB dongles. The "Multiple-connect" indicates that a shared dongle will be available for use on multiple remote machines simultaneously, while "Single-connect" means you can only have one connection at a time.

4

Check the box next to the required USB key and click "Share".

5

On the client computer, run the program and log in with the same Donglify account.

6

Once done, you’ll see the list of available devices.

7

Locate the one you want to connect to and click “Connect”.

8

That’s about it! The shared USB dongle will now be recognized by the remote system as if it were physically connected to that computer. Creating virtual security dongles is easier than ever with Donglify.

Watch our video guide to learn how to create a virtual USB dongle