Yes, copy-protection is generally a drag (don't get me started on iLok, C/R, and other nuisances), but it's a fact of virtual life. In the case of Waves, I don't think it's an established fact that their C/P scheme is any more problematic than most others. If they were receiving a large volume of license-related support calls, they'd likely change their scheme, wouldn't they? Why would they stick with a system that was fragile and always breaking?
 
It's unfortunate that you had issues with Waves, but one user's experience does not necessarily mean the whole thing is broken. There are many satisfied customers who use Waves products in high-profile situations (major-label recordings, live concerts, broadcasts, etc.) every day.
 
As for WUP, here's another way to maintain support coverage: buy a cheap plugin every year (those no-brainer flash sales!), and if you have some general Waves problem -- licensing or other systemic issue -- you're covered. Very rarely does a specific plugin break and need fixing (which is another reason I like Waves).
 
Cheers,
Eddie
 

OK folks, this worked:
 
1. On "Razor-DAW", (my PC name) launch Waves Central and log in using your account information.
2. Click on Manage Licenses.
3. In the left-hand panel, click on the device to which your licenses are currently activated (your computer).
4. In the middle panel, choose the licenses to move.
5. In the right-hand panel, choose your USB flash drive.
6. Click Send Licenses.
 
So we're cool. I have to say even though there is a happy ending, I've owned a lot of music software over the decades, and I don't recall any of them being this particular before.
 
At least it works!
 
Cheers!
 
Stephen

Eddie TX
As for WUP, here's another way to maintain support coverage: buy a cheap plugin every year (those no-brainer flash sales!), and if you have some general Waves problem -- licensing or other systemic issue -- you're covered. Very rarely does a specific plugin break and need fixing (which is another reason I like Waves).
 

Do you specifically have to sign up for WUP for this to work?
I've purchased a number of Waves plugins recently and I just got notified that another one of my old plugs had WUP expire. 

Agreed, the fact that they are good plugs is why I was willing to work out this issue with the licensing. If they werent, I wouldn't have--I promise you that.

All of the Waves plugs I have are the flash sales--they are definitely worth it.

I think the reason I made a stink is because I had one issue with the license being in the cloud, lost Internet, lost plugs.

Moved the licensing to iLok to avoid the issue, Waves discontinued iLok support, lost my network connections, lost plugs.

So, here I am--ready for nuclear fallout and I'll still have my plugs. Just a series or unfortunate events--that's all. No dark hatred for Waves. BTW--I now have to use iLok for another one of my favorite mastering software suites, so there you go. It's too bad there are so many dishonest people who crack software or we wouldn't be having this conversation.

Cheers all, and thanks for the help. I always appreciate it.