Starting with the 2026.1 release, the AMD Vivado™ Design Suite uses a tier-based subscription licensing model. This new model introduces more flexible options, annual subscription-based options such as Basic, Core and Pro and perpetual options like Enterprise and Gold. Each tier provides a defined set of features, device support, and tool capabilities. Refer to the Vivado Overview Licensing Options page for detailed information.
When you purchase an AMD Vivado™ subscription, you are purchasing a license to use and receive updates for the tool for the duration of the subscription period. The subscription tier you select determines the following:
- The devices you can target in your design.
- The design features available to you (simulation, debug, hierarchical flows, security, and others).
- The update cadence (releases and updates).
From 2026.1, a valid license file must be installed and accessible to AMD Vivado™ before the tool can be launched. If no valid license file is found, AMD Vivado™ does not launch. You can configure the license path using the AMD Vivado™ License Manager (VLM) or by setting the XILINXD_LICENSE_FILE environment variable to point to your license file or license server. Both floating and node-locked license types continue to be supported across all tiers.