Applicable Product:
PeopleFluent Learning
Applicable Release:
All Versions
Overview
When an LMS license is changed, encrypted passwords become invalid because they are tied to the license. This article explains how license changes impact encrypted properties and outlines the correct handling procedure to avoid startup failures.
Why License Changes Affect Encrypted Passwords
Encryption keys are derived from the active license
Old encrypted values cannot be decrypted with a new license
The LMS will fail to authenticate if encrypted values remain unchanged
Properties Commonly Affected
Examples of properties that may use encryption:
default.encryptedPasswordSMTP credentials (if configured)
JMS, LDAP, SSO, or external integration passwords
Payment gateway credentials
Required Procedure (High-Level)
Revert encrypted passwords to plain text
Apply the new license
Start the LMS and allow full initialization
Re-encrypt passwords via:
Manage Center → System → Encrypt PasswordUpdate
ekp.propertieswith the new encrypted valuesRestart the LMS
Indicators of Incorrect Handling
LMS fails to start after license update
Database connection errors
Authentication or integration failures
Summary
Encrypted passwords are license-dependent
License changes always require password re-handling
Following the correct sequence prevents downtime