Xilinx ISE Design Suite: Legacy Tool Installation Guide

A complete guide to installing and configuring Xilinx ISE and ISE WebPACK on modern Windows and Linux systems for legacy FPGA and CPLD development.

Why Xilinx ISE Still Matters in 2024

If you’re working with Spartan-6, Virtex-6, or CoolRunner CPLDs, you’ve probably discovered that Vivado won’t help you—these devices require the legacy Xilinx ISE Design Suite. Despite being officially discontinued in October 2013 with the final version 14.7, ISE remains essential for thousands of active designs and development boards still in production.

The challenge? Installing software from 2013 on Windows 10, Windows 11, or modern Linux distributions isn’t straightforward. This guide covers everything you need to know—from choosing the right edition to applying the necessary fixes for modern operating systems.

Understanding Xilinx ISE: When You Need It vs. Vivado

Before diving into installation, let’s clarify when Xilinx ISE is actually required. The device families determine which tool you need—there’s no overlap.

Popular development boards like the Basys 2, Nexys 2, Nexys 3, and countless custom designs use Spartan-6 devices, making Xilinx ISE indispensable for educational and industrial applications.

Xilinx ISE WebPACK vs. Full Editions: Choosing the Right Version

The good news: Xilinx ISE WebPACK is completely free and supports the most commonly used device families. For most users—especially those working with Spartan-3, Spartan-6, and CoolRunner CPLDs—WebPACK provides everything needed.

ISE Edition Comparison

System Requirements for Xilinx ISE 14.7

Before downloading, verify your system meets these requirements:

• Operating System: Windows 7/8/10/11 (with workarounds) or Linux (RHEL 5/6, SUSE 11, Ubuntu with fixes)
• Disk Space: 20-30 GB for full installation, 6-8 GB for WebPACK
• RAM: 4 GB minimum, 8 GB recommended for larger designs
• Processor: x86-64 architecture (ARM not supported)
• Download Size: 6.5 GB (Linux), 6.2 GB (Windows), 15.5 GB (Windows 10/11 VM)

Installing Xilinx ISE on Windows 10 and Windows 11

Windows 10 and 11 users have two options: the native installer with manual fixes, or the official Virtual Machine version. Here’s how to approach each method.

Option 1: Native Installation with libPortability Fix

This method runs ISE natively on Windows and works well for most users:

1. Download the Windows 7/XP installer (not the Windows 10 version) from the AMD/Xilinx archive
2. Extract the downloaded TAR/GZIP file using 7-Zip or similar tool
3. Run xsetup.exe as Administrator and select ISE WebPACK edition
4. Complete installation, accepting all prompts for driver installation
5. Apply the libPortability fix (see troubleshooting section below)
6. Obtain and install the ISE WebPACK license

Option 2: Official Virtual Machine Installation

AMD provides an official VM image for Windows 10/11 that runs ISE inside a Linux virtual machine:

1. Download ‘14.7 Windows 10 and Windows 11’ package (15.52 GB)
2. Install Oracle VirtualBox if not already installed
3. Import the VM image—ISE is pre-configured inside
4. Configure USB passthrough for programming cables

The VM approach guarantees compatibility but adds overhead. For development work, the native installation is generally faster and more convenient once the fixes are applied.

Read more Xilinx FPGA Series:

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Xilinx Artix-7 FPGA Family: Features, Specs & Selection Guide

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Xilinx FPGA Programming for Beginners: First Project Tutorial

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Xilinx Kintex-7 FPGA: Mid-Range Performance Powerhouse

Xilinx Spartan-3 FPGA: Legacy Support & Migration Guide

Xilinx Spartan-6 FPGA: Still Relevant? Complete 2025 Guide

Xilinx Spartan-7 FPGA: Low-Cost Solution for Embedded Design

Xilinx Virtex-7 FPGA: High-End Performance for Critical Applications

Installing Xilinx ISE on Linux (Ubuntu/Debian)

While Xilinx ISE officially supports RHEL and SUSE, it runs on Ubuntu and other distributions with some adjustments.

Basic Linux Installation Steps

1. Download the Full Installer for Linux (Xilinx_ISE_DS_Lin_14.7_1015_1.tar)
2. Extract to a temporary directory: tar -xvf Xilinx_ISE_DS_Lin_14.7_1015_1.tar
3. Run the installer: sudo ./xsetup
4. Select ISE WebPACK and install to /opt/Xilinx/14.7
5. Set ownership: sudo chown -R $USER:$USER /opt/Xilinx
6. Source the environment: source /opt/Xilinx/14.7/ISE_DS/settings64.sh

Critical Linux Fixes

Modern Ubuntu versions require additional fixes for library compatibility:

• libstdc++ conflicts: Remove or rename the bundled libstdc++.so from ISE_DS/ISE/lib/lin64/ and ISE_DS/common/lib/lin64/
• LD_LIBRARY_PATH order: Edit .settings64.sh files to place system libraries before Xilinx libraries
• Cable drivers: Install the open-source usb-driver from git://git.zerfleddert.de/usb-driver
• Locale issues: Export LANG=” before launching PlanAhead to avoid decimal point problems

Obtaining Your Xilinx ISE WebPACK License

Even though Xilinx ISE WebPACK is free, you still need a license file. Here’s how to get one:

1. Create an AMD account at amd.com (or use existing Xilinx account)
2. Navigate to Product Licensing portal
3. Select ‘ISE WebPACK License’ from available options
4. Generate a node-locked license for your machine
5. Download the Xilinx.lic file from the email sent to you
6. In ISE, go to Help → Manage License → Load License

On Linux, place the license file in ~/.Xilinx/Xilinx.lic or set the XILINXD_LICENSE_FILE environment variable.

Troubleshooting Common Xilinx ISE Installation Problems

ISE Crashes on Windows 10/11 (libPortability Fix)

The most common issue on modern Windows is ISE crashing when opening file dialogs. This is caused by SmartHeap memory allocator incompatibility.

Fix:

• Navigate to C:\Xilinx\14.7\ISE_DS\ISE\lib\nt64\
• Rename libPortability.dll to libPortability.dll.orig
• Copy libPortabilityNOSH.dll and rename it to libPortability.dll
• Repeat in C:\Xilinx\14.7\ISE_DS\common\lib\nt64\

64-bit Tools Crash (Use 32-bit Binaries)

If 64-bit tools crash consistently, try using the 32-bit versions instead. Navigate to the bin\nt folder instead of bin\nt64 and copy the 32-bit executables to replace the 64-bit shortcuts.

License Manager Crashes on Windows 8+

If the License Configuration Manager crashes when loading licenses, manually copy your Xilinx.lic file to C:\Xilinx\.Xilinx\ (note the trailing dot in the folder name—Windows requires this unusual naming convention).

PlanAhead Segmentation Fault on Linux

PlanAhead may crash with locale-related issues. Set LANG=” before launching, and ensure you’re not using Noto fonts as the system default.

Useful Resources for Xilinx ISE Users

• ISE Download Archive: All ISE Versions
• ISE VM User Guide: UG1227 Documentation
• AMD Support Community: Forums and Answers
• Windows 10 Fix Guide (AR#62380): Official Workaround
• Linux USB Driver: Open Source Cable Driver
• Digilent Adept Tools: Board Support Software

Frequently Asked Questions About Xilinx ISE

1. Is Xilinx ISE WebPACK really free?

Yes, Xilinx ISE WebPACK is completely free for commercial and non-commercial use. You need to register with AMD/Xilinx and obtain a free license file, but there are no fees or expiration dates for supported device families.

2. Can I use Xilinx ISE for Spartan-7 or Artix-7 devices?

No. Spartan-7, Artix-7, Kintex-7, and all newer device families require Vivado Design Suite. Xilinx ISE only supports devices up to and including Spartan-6, Virtex-6, and the CoolRunner CPLD families.

3. Should I use the Windows 10 VM version or native installation?

For most users, the native installation with the libPortability fix provides better performance and easier file management. The VM version guarantees compatibility but requires more disk space (15+ GB) and has USB passthrough configuration overhead. Choose the VM if you encounter persistent issues with native installation.

4. Why does ISE crash when I try to open or save files?

This is the SmartHeap memory allocator issue affecting Windows 8 and later. Apply the libPortability fix described in the troubleshooting section—rename libPortability.dll and replace it with libPortabilityNOSH.dll in both the ISE\lib\nt64 and common\lib\nt64 directories.

5. Will Xilinx ever update ISE for newer operating systems?

Unlikely. Xilinx ISE entered sustaining mode in October 2013, meaning no new features or OS support updates. AMD provides the Windows 10/11 VM as a workaround rather than updating the native tools. For long-term projects, consider migrating to newer device families supported by Vivado when possible.

Conclusion: Getting Started with Your Legacy A complete guide to installing and configuring Xilinx ISE and ISE WebPACK on modern Windows and Linux systems for legacy FPGA and CPLD development.

Why Xilinx ISE Still Matters in 2024

If you’re working with Spartan-6, Virtex-6, or CoolRunner CPLDs, you’ve probably discovered that Vivado won’t help you—these devices require the legacy Xilinx ISE Design Suite. Despite being officially discontinued in October 2013 with the final version 14.7, ISE remains essential for thousands of active designs and development boards still in production.

The challenge? Installing software from 2013 on Windows 10, Windows 11, or modern Linux distributions isn’t straightforward. This guide covers everything you need to know—from choosing the right edition to applying the necessary fixes for modern operating systems.

Understanding Xilinx ISE: When You Need It vs. Vivado

Before diving into installation, let’s clarify when Xilinx ISE is actually required. The device families determine which tool you need—there’s no overlap.

Popular development boards like the Basys 2, Nexys 2, Nexys 3, and countless custom designs use Spartan-6 devices, making Xilinx ISE indispensable for educational and industrial applications.

Xilinx ISE WebPACK vs. Full Editions: Choosing the Right Version

The good news: Xilinx ISE WebPACK is completely free and supports the most commonly used device families. For most users—especially those working with Spartan-3, Spartan-6, and CoolRunner CPLDs—WebPACK provides everything needed.

ISE Edition Comparison

System Requirements for Xilinx ISE 14.7

Before downloading, verify your system meets these requirements:

• Operating System: Windows 7/8/10/11 (with workarounds) or Linux (RHEL 5/6, SUSE 11, Ubuntu with fixes)
• Disk Space: 20-30 GB for full installation, 6-8 GB for WebPACK
• RAM: 4 GB minimum, 8 GB recommended for larger designs
• Processor: x86-64 architecture (ARM not supported)
• Download Size: 6.5 GB (Linux), 6.2 GB (Windows), 15.5 GB (Windows 10/11 VM)

Installing Xilinx ISE on Windows 10 and Windows 11

Windows 10 and 11 users have two options: the native installer with manual fixes, or the official Virtual Machine version. Here’s how to approach each method.

Option 1: Native Installation with libPortability Fix

This method runs ISE natively on Windows and works well for most users:

1. Download the Windows 7/XP installer (not the Windows 10 version) from the AMD/Xilinx archive
2. Extract the downloaded TAR/GZIP file using 7-Zip or similar tool
3. Run xsetup.exe as Administrator and select ISE WebPACK edition
4. Complete installation, accepting all prompts for driver installation
5. Apply the libPortability fix (see troubleshooting section below)
6. Obtain and install the ISE WebPACK license

Option 2: Official Virtual Machine Installation

AMD provides an official VM image for Windows 10/11 that runs ISE inside a Linux virtual machine:

1. Download ‘14.7 Windows 10 and Windows 11’ package (15.52 GB)
2. Install Oracle VirtualBox if not already installed
3. Import the VM image—ISE is pre-configured inside
4. Configure USB passthrough for programming cables

The VM approach guarantees compatibility but adds overhead. For development work, the native installation is generally faster and more convenient once the fixes are applied.

Read more Xilinx Products:

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Installing Xilinx ISE on Linux (Ubuntu/Debian)

While Xilinx ISE officially supports RHEL and SUSE, it runs on Ubuntu and other distributions with some adjustments.

Basic Linux Installation Steps

1. Download the Full Installer for Linux (Xilinx_ISE_DS_Lin_14.7_1015_1.tar)
2. Extract to a temporary directory: tar -xvf Xilinx_ISE_DS_Lin_14.7_1015_1.tar
3. Run the installer: sudo ./xsetup
4. Select ISE WebPACK and install to /opt/Xilinx/14.7
5. Set ownership: sudo chown -R $USER:$USER /opt/Xilinx
6. Source the environment: source /opt/Xilinx/14.7/ISE_DS/settings64.sh

Critical Linux Fixes

Modern Ubuntu versions require additional fixes for library compatibility:

• libstdc++ conflicts: Remove or rename the bundled libstdc++.so from ISE_DS/ISE/lib/lin64/ and ISE_DS/common/lib/lin64/
• LD_LIBRARY_PATH order: Edit .settings64.sh files to place system libraries before Xilinx libraries
• Cable drivers: Install the open-source usb-driver from git://git.zerfleddert.de/usb-driver
• Locale issues: Export LANG=” before launching PlanAhead to avoid decimal point problems

Obtaining Your Xilinx ISE WebPACK License

Even though Xilinx ISE WebPACK is free, you still need a license file. Here’s how to get one:

1. Create an AMD account at amd.com (or use existing Xilinx account)
2. Navigate to Product Licensing portal
3. Select ‘ISE WebPACK License’ from available options
4. Generate a node-locked license for your machine
5. Download the Xilinx.lic file from the email sent to you
6. In ISE, go to Help → Manage License → Load License

On Linux, place the license file in ~/.Xilinx/Xilinx.lic or set the XILINXD_LICENSE_FILE environment variable.

Troubleshooting Common Xilinx ISE Installation Problems

ISE Crashes on Windows 10/11 (libPortability Fix)

The most common issue on modern Windows is ISE crashing when opening file dialogs. This is caused by SmartHeap memory allocator incompatibility.

Fix:

• Navigate to C:\Xilinx\14.7\ISE_DS\ISE\lib\nt64\
• Rename libPortability.dll to libPortability.dll.orig
• Copy libPortabilityNOSH.dll and rename it to libPortability.dll
• Repeat in C:\Xilinx\14.7\ISE_DS\common\lib\nt64\

64-bit Tools Crash (Use 32-bit Binaries)

If 64-bit tools crash consistently, try using the 32-bit versions instead. Navigate to the bin\nt folder instead of bin\nt64 and copy the 32-bit executables to replace the 64-bit shortcuts.

License Manager Crashes on Windows 8+

If the License Configuration Manager crashes when loading licenses, manually copy your Xilinx.lic file to C:\Xilinx\.Xilinx\ (note the trailing dot in the folder name—Windows requires this unusual naming convention).

PlanAhead Segmentation Fault on Linux

PlanAhead may crash with locale-related issues. Set LANG=” before launching, and ensure you’re not using Noto fonts as the system default.

Useful Resources for Xilinx ISE Users

• ISE Download Archive: All ISE Versions
• ISE VM User Guide: UG1227 Documentation
• AMD Support Community: Forums and Answers
• Windows 10 Fix Guide (AR#62380): Official Workaround
• Linux USB Driver: Open Source Cable Driver
• Digilent Adept Tools: Board Support Software

Frequently Asked Questions About Xilinx ISE

1. Is Xilinx ISE WebPACK really free?

Yes, Xilinx ISE WebPACK is completely free for commercial and non-commercial use. You need to register with AMD/Xilinx and obtain a free license file, but there are no fees or expiration dates for supported device families.

2. Can I use Xilinx ISE for Spartan-7 or Artix-7 devices?

No. Spartan-7, Artix-7, Kintex-7, and all newer device families require Vivado Design Suite. Xilinx ISE only supports devices up to and including Spartan-6, Virtex-6, and the CoolRunner CPLD families.

3. Should I use the Windows 10 VM version or native installation?

For most users, the native installation with the libPortability fix provides better performance and easier file management. The VM version guarantees compatibility but requires more disk space (15+ GB) and has USB passthrough configuration overhead. Choose the VM if you encounter persistent issues with native installation.

4. Why does ISE crash when I try to open or save files?

This is the SmartHeap memory allocator issue affecting Windows 8 and later. Apply the libPortability fix described in the troubleshooting section—rename libPortability.dll and replace it with libPortabilityNOSH.dll in both the ISE\lib\nt64 and common\lib\nt64 directories.

5. Will Xilinx ever update ISE for newer operating systems?

Unlikely. Xilinx ISE entered sustaining mode in October 2013, meaning no new features or OS support updates. AMD provides the Windows 10/11 VM as a workaround rather than updating the native tools. For long-term projects, consider migrating to newer device families supported by Vivado when possible.

Conclusion: Getting Started with Your Legacy FPGA Development

While Xilinx ISE requires some extra effort to install on modern systems, it remains a capable and feature-rich tool for Spartan and Virtex development. The Xilinx ISE WebPACK edition provides professional-grade synthesis, implementation, and debugging capabilities at no cost.

Whether you’re maintaining legacy hardware, working with educational development boards, or simply prefer the stability of proven silicon, ISE 14.7 continues to serve the FPGA community well. Apply the fixes documented here, obtain your free license, and you’ll have a fully functional development environment ready for your next project.

For new designs where device selection is flexible, consider Vivado-supported families like Spartan-7 or Artix-7 to benefit from ongoing tool development and support.FPGA Development

While Xilinx ISE requires some extra effort to install on modern systems, it remains a capable and feature-rich tool for Spartan and Virtex development. The Xilinx ISE WebPACK edition provides professional-grade synthesis, implementation, and debugging capabilities at no cost.

Whether you’re maintaining legacy hardware, working with educational development boards, or simply prefer the stability of proven silicon, ISE 14.7 continues to serve the FPGA community well. Apply the fixes documented here, obtain your free license, and you’ll have a fully functional development environment ready for your next project.

For new designs where device selection is flexible, consider Vivado-supported families like Spartan-7 or Artix-7 to benefit from ongoing tool development and support.