The USB eLicenser, also referred to as Steinberg Key or dongle, is a copy protection unit required by most Steinberg software products . It is included in the boxed versions of Steinberg's host applications Cubase Pro, Cubase Artist, Nuendo and WaveLab Pro. Alongside with the host applications, many Steinberg VST instruments also require the USB eLicenser. However, the dongle is not included in VST instrument product boxes and must be purchased separately if no USB eLicenser is already in use.

The USB eLicenser connects to your computer’s USB port and can store several Steinberg product licenses, due to the Steinberg copy protection system. You can also transfer licenses between USB eLicensers, with certain limitations.