(Adjust the path for 64-bit systems or if your installation directory differs.)
If you disable the service using Method 1, CorelDRAW X5 may display an "Error 38" or a validation failure message upon launch because it can no longer communicate with the background service. To bypass this check legally on your local machine, you must instruct CorelDRAW to use a local validation link rather than the global Windows service. Step 1: Locate your CorelDRAW Program Files
Some users prefer a less invasive approach—blocking CorelDRAW from accessing the internet rather than removing Protexis entirely:
The most straightforward method for removing Protexis from Corel X5 involves using a batch file commonly named RemoveProtexis.cmd . This method is widely circulated within the Corel user community because it automates the removal of the licensing service and related DLL files. Corel X5 Remove Protexis-cmd
Press Windows Key + X and select or Command Prompt (Admin) .
This method disables the service but keeps CorelDRAW functional by "spoofing" the licensing check. Disable the Service services.msc , and hit Enter. Protexis Licensing V2 . Right-click it, select Properties , set the "Startup type" to , and click Locate the Licensing File Navigate to: C:\Program Files\Common Files\Protexis\License Service PSIKey_2.dll and copy it (do not move it). Apply the Fix to CorelDRAW Go to your Corel installation folder (typically C:\Program Files\Corel\CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5\Programs Rename the existing PsiClient.dll PsiClient.bak PSIKey_2.dll you copied earlier into this folder and rename it to PsiClient.dll : You can now safely delete the original Common Files Method 2: Using a Command-Line Fix ( RemoveProtexis-cmd
C:\Program Files (x86)\Corel\CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5\Programs\ (32-bit systems or 32-bit app on 64-bit Windows) (Adjust the path for 64-bit systems or if
For a softer approach that disables rather than removes Protexis:
@echo off :: Stop and delete the service sc stop PSI_SVC_2 sc delete PSI_SVC_2
The first step is to prevent the service from starting automatically with Windows. Press , type services.msc , and hit Enter. Locate Protexis Licensing V2 in the list. This method is widely circulated within the Corel
How to Completely Remove Protexis (PsiService_2.exe) from CorelDRAW X5
This means CorelDRAW X5 cannot find the local replacement DLL file. Double-check your Programs directory. Ensure PsiKey.dll or PsiKey_2.dll is present in the folder where CorelDRW.exe resides. Windows Asks to Reinstall Protexis