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License active issue
License active issue
Type
Document
Status
Published
Created
Oct 10, 2025
Updated
Feb 12, 2026
Updated by
Dosu Bot

Activating Rainbow Brackets Plugin#

To activate the Rainbow Brackets plugin in IntelliJ-based IDEs, ensure you have installed the plugin from the official JetBrains Marketplace or other authorized channels. The plugin operates under a proprietary freemium license:

  • Free features (e.g., basic bracket colorization, core syntax highlighting) are available to all users without payment.
  • Premium features (such as advanced language-specific enhancements for C#, F#, Python, advanced indent modes, and features marked with ✨ in the Features Matrix) require a valid paid license purchased through the JetBrains Marketplace. See the Features Matrix for a complete list.

Activation Steps#

  1. Install the Plugin

    • Download and install Rainbow Brackets from the JetBrains Marketplace.

  2. Configure Settings

    • Open your IDE and navigate to Settings/Preferences > Other Settings > Rainbow Brackets.
    • Enable the master switch and select the bracket types you want highlighted.
    • For advanced features, such as rainbow variables or language-specific enhancements, ensure the relevant options are checked and that any required dependencies (e.g., JetBrains Python plugin for Python support) are installed and enabled.

  3. License Activation (Premium Features Only)

    • If you wish to use premium features, you must purchase a license through the JetBrains Marketplace.
    • After purchase, activate your license in the Rainbow Brackets settings panel. The plugin will validate your license automatically.
    • Access to premium features without a valid paid license is strictly prohibited.

Troubleshooting Activation Issues#

If Rainbow Brackets is not activated or not functioning as expected, consider the following:

  • Plugin Disabled: Ensure the plugin is enabled in the settings. The rainbowEnabled option should be set to true.
  • License Problems: If you see messages indicating no valid license, verify your license status in the Rainbow Brackets settings panel. Sometimes, the IDE may not immediately recognize a valid license; waiting or refreshing the license can resolve this.
  • Piracy or Cracked Software: If you are using a cracked IDE or plugin (e.g., with tools like ja-netfilter), activation will not occur. The license prohibits cracking, bypassing, or circumventing license validation mechanisms. Uninstall any cracked software and reinstall a licensed version.
  • Dependencies: For language-specific features, ensure all required dependencies are installed and enabled. For example, rainbow variable highlighting in Python requires the JetBrains Python plugin (source).
  • IDE Caches: After installing or updating the plugin, invalidating IDE caches can resolve some activation issues.
  • You may not crack, bypass, disable, or circumvent any license validation or protection mechanisms.
  • You may not use, distribute, or promote any cracked, pirated, or unauthorized versions of the plugin.
  • Accessing premium features without a valid paid license is strictly prohibited.
  • Modification, redistribution, or creation of derivative works is not allowed.
  • Do not use the "Rainbow Brackets" name for your own plugins or for commercial purposes without express written permission from the developer.

Support#

If you have followed these steps and Rainbow Brackets remains inactive, check for updates to both your IDE and the plugin, review the plugin’s GitHub issues for recent compatibility reports, and verify your license status in the settings panel.

For licensing questions or permissions, contact:

By installing or using the plugin, you agree to be bound by the terms of the Rainbow Brackets Proprietary License. If you do not agree to these terms, do not install or use the plugin.