---
title: Activate an Edge Device
slug: edgemanager/quickstart-guide/activate-an-edge-device
description: To manage a Litmus Edge device in Litmus Edge Manager, you must first activate it. 
docTags: 
createdAt: 2022-10-21T21:51:57.000Z
---

Before an Edge device can be managed centrally, it must be activated. Activation establishes: 

- Secure communication between Litmus Edge and Litmus Edge Manager
- License compliance (node-locked or site-based) 
- Centralized control of device configurations

Think of activation as the handshake that allows your Edge device to join the Litmus ecosystem.



![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/SSUUxKZUk9bFTEPNn_6Zo/GnT5Ru7vlYg3DiFOutYyN-20251127-230839.png)

### Step 1: Verify Compatibility

- Ensure your **Litmus Edge version** matches the **Edge Manager version**. See [Step 1: Verify Litmus Edge- Litmus Edge Manager Compatibility](docId\:lpIY4g2pqsn7iJfPKgamz).
- Incompatible versions may cause API errors or missing features.

### Step 2: Create Activation Configuration

- Navigate to **Edge Manager **>** Devices **>** Activation Config**.
- Fill in required parameters:
  - Device ID
  - License key
  - Server URL/port
- This configuration file acts as the identity card for your device.

### Step 3: Request Activation

- Upload the activation config from your Edge device.
  The device sends a request to Edge Manager.
- Pending requests appear in the **Activation Queue**.

### Step 4: Approve Request

- An administrator reviews and approves the request.
- Approval ensures only trusted devices join the network.
- Once approved, the device is officially recognized.

### Step 5: Verify Activation

- Confirm the device appears in the **Active Devices list**.
- Check connectivity status (green indicator).
- Run a quick test: send sample data to Edge Manager.

### Step 6: Enable MQTT SSL Connector

- Go to **Connector Settings** and enable **MQTT with SSL**.
- MQTT is the default protocol for data transfer, and SSL ensures encryption.
- This step secures all communication between Edge and Manager.

### Troubleshooting

- **License mismatch**: Double-check license type and key.
- **Firewall blocking port**: Ensure server port is open.
-  **SSL certificate error** → Verify certificates are valid and not expired.

*Best Practice:* Always sync device time with NTP before activation to avoid certificate issues.

# Video

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:::