A plain-text view may look similar to this (though portions are often obfuscated or hashed):
REAPER LICENSE
Licensee: John Doe
License type: Discounted
Version: 6
Key: XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX
reaper-license.rk is a filename pattern you might encounter if you use REAPER, the digital audio workstation by Cockos. It’s typically associated with license or activation information for a registered copy of REAPER. Understanding what this file is, how it’s used, and how to manage it helps you keep your DAW properly licensed and avoid disruptions to your workflow.
The .rk extension stands for REAPER Key. Unlike traditional software where you copy and paste a 20-digit alphanumeric serial number, REAPER uses a cryptographic license file.
The reaper-license.rk is a plain-text file that contains encrypted data specific to you: reaper-license.rk
Is it safe? Yes. It is not an executable (.exe). It does not contain macros or scripts. It is simply a text file with a digital signature. However, because it is an attachment, some email providers or antivirus software may quarantine it. You must whitelist the email from licensing@cockos.com.
Q: Can I share my reaper-license.rk file with my bandmate?
A: No. The Individual license is strictly for one person on up to two computers (e.g., studio desktop and laptop). Sharing the file constitutes piracy. Your bandmate needs their own license or a Commercial Multi-User license.
Q: I lost the file. Can I get a new one?
A: Yes. Email licensing@cockos.com with your full name and email address used for purchase. They are extremely responsive (often within hours) and will re-send your license. A plain-text view may look similar to this
Q: Does REAPER phone home to check the reaper-license.rk?
A: No. REAPER is privacy-focused. It validates the cryptographic signature of the .rk file entirely offline. It does not send your license information to any server unless you manually click "Check for Updates."
Q: Why did my antivirus flag reaper-license.rk?
A: Some overzealous antivirus tools flag any file with a .rk (or unfamiliar .key) extension as a potential "registry key" hack. This is a false positive. Whitelist the file. You can verify the hash of the file against the official Cockos forums if you remain paranoid.
The name suggests two parts:
Thus, reaper-license.rk is likely:
The existence of reaper-license.rk is central to REAPER's distribution philosophy, often described as "Uncrippled Shareware."