Doh...! So I disable all my security, close down other programmes (yes, I have installed software before!), create a profile, intall the installer (!!!???), log in, enter the key and try to download the app.  Get thrown out.  Go round in circles for an hour.  Don't think I'll bother.  What's the point of buying the DVDs if 'bundled' software is hidden behind dumb security like this. XLN is off my Christmas list.  And Cakewalk isn't helping make a smooth user experience... Come guys, it's 2013, it shouldn't be this clunky.

I blame the pirates, not those trying to protect themselves from piracy. This went smooth as silk for me in any case. What does "Get thrown out" mean?

Same here - I had no problems creating a new account or downloading/installing the software using the serial from CW... I didn't buy the X3 DVD. This was on IE.
 
However, I did purchase Addictive Keys from Musicians Friend which is the downloader on DVD, and everything worked just fine.  Although I would have much preferred a simple download like X3 instead of the DVD>download>install process, in the end the result was the same - for both AK and AD. 
 
Did you contact XLN?  They're the only ones that can help. 

brundlefly
Yes, because I did it. It installed to my system drive by default, and I moved it to D: after the fact by going to the "Advanced" section of the online installer.

wow,  thanks for the info   
 
Kenny

Hey Steve, I also bought Addictive Keys, and it wasn't necessary to re-install the Online Installer from the DVD. The one installed for Addictive Drums was still in the Start menu. The same downloader/installer can be used for any instrument or add-in you get from Addictive.
 
 

Hi Dave, I actually installed AK first using the downloader on the DVD.  Then used that again for AD.    But I did have to create an account the first time out.

While I'm not thrilled with having to download the products each time you reinstall, having just done a clean install of Win8.1, XLN's installer is pretty nice.  Just run it and all your XLN products are installed in one go, no looking for/entering key's etc.  Pretty painless, as was the original install & the Addictive Key's I purchased as well.
 
Dan

I sort of hijack this thread ;)
I have just upgraded my Sonar to the X3 Producer edition and installed the full Addictive Drums. So far so fine...
But when i open X3 it only reccons the AD free x32. I can't find the full version. What am i missing?
I did restart the computer. 
Does anyone had this experience and found a solution?
Cheers!

You will need to register AD on the XLN website.   I saw the same thing after initially installing AD, when I realized that I had never actually registered it even though it was already downloaded and installed.

Well, I hear you guys, but it still ain't working here - and I have been here since Pro Audio 9, so I'm not new to this.  AD is in my XLN product list on the Installer, but it kicks me out with this: "ERROR File download failed! Please check your internet connection and try temporaily disabling firewall or anti-virus apps...Cotton XLN Online Installer/1001/InstallData_app_ad/FactoryPresets/AD/PopRock/MediumSmack n Pop.ADPreset".  Obviously this message would be unintelligible to the layman, but luckily I have worked with IT professionals over many years, so I can interpret.  Translated, it means: "Go away, you are an idiot and we don't want your business.  We have expensive toys to play with, leave us alone".  No problem.  XLN won't be getting any more business of mine!