Tableau's licensing model is designed to ensure that users have access to the software's robust features while also protecting the company's intellectual property. When a user purchases a Tableau license, they receive an activation key, which is used to unlock the software's full functionality. The activation key is tied to the user's device and is required to access the software.

: Small non-profits can often obtain donated Tableau licenses through TechSoup for a small administrative fee. How to Manage or Find Your Key