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Ross-Tech VCDS HEX-NET Interface Package (10 VIN)

Ross-Tech VCDS HEX-NET WiFi / USB package for VW, Audi, Seat, Skoda cars (1996 on, 10 VIN limit)

Product Code: VCHN10

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Product details

VAG-COM VCDS screenshot

VAG-COM VCDS screenshot

Please check the
product comparison chart
to select the required version

The power of VCDS® in a wireless interface!

Serious car diagnostics interfaces for Volkswagen, Audi, Seat and Skoda models!

The Ross-Tech VCDS package (previously known as VAG-COM or VAGCOM) turns your PC into a sophisticated VW/Audi diagnostic tool, that performs the functions of a factory VAG scan tools for VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda cars.

Until now, VCDS has always required a Windows PC and a cabled connection to function. The new HEX-NET® interface changes that.

The HEX-NET has been completely re-designed from the ground up to be faster, more secure and more versatile. The HEX-NET is the fastest interface Ross-Tech have ever sold. It can perform AutoScans on 2005 and later models up to 3 times faster than the HEX-USB+CAN interface.

The HEX-NET interface supports USB and Wi-Fi connection so it can be used in several different ways:
  • All functions via USB connection to a Windows PC with desktop VCDS software
  • All functions via Wi-Fi connection to a Windows PC with desktop VCDS software
  • Basic functions via Wi-Fi "Access Point" connection to any computer or smart device using the web-based VCDS Mobile software
  • All functions via Wi-Fi "Infrastructure" and cloud connection to any computer or smart device using the web-based VCDS Mobile software (an existing Wi-Fi network with internet access is required for infrastructure mode)
For more details, please see this video:


The HEX-NET is available in 2 versions - an "enthusiast" version, with which use of advanced functions is limited to connection to 10 unique vehicles (10 VINs), and a "professional" unlimited version, which may be used on as many cars as you wish.

This product is the enthusiast version and may only be used for advanced functions on 10 cars.
For professional use, please see the unlimited package.

VIN Limits

Only some VCDS functions are restricted to use on a specific number of cars on the 10-VIN limited interfaces. Basic functions may be used on as many cars as you wish:

Unlimited functions

A VIN-Limited interface can do Auto-Scans, Clear DTCs, and look at Measuring Values on an unlimited number of cars.
If you directly connect to a control module (e.g. Select > 01. Engine), or use the 'Clear All DTCs' function, VCDS will ask if you wish to store the VIN, but selecting Cancel will still allow the function to continue.

Limited functions

Essentially functions that actually change things in the car are VIN-limited:

VCDS will never count a VIN toward the license limit without the user's explicit permission.
It will always ask you first, thereby giving you the opportunity to decline to "register" a VIN in the interface.

For more information on VIN limits please see this VIN FAQ on the Ross-Tech forums.

General Information

Official VCDS HEX-NET Enthusiast interfaces from Ross Tech LLC, that work with:
  • VW/Audi/Seat/Skoda cars with the 16-pin diagnostic socket including models using CAN and UDS/ODX protocols (i.e. almost all from 1995 to Current Model Year - see coverage notes below)
  • Pre-1995 VW/Audi cars, when used with an additional 2x2 adapter (not included)

VCDS Windows Desktop Software

Using VCDS on a Windows PC, you can:
  • read and clear fault codes from all systems within the car, e.g. engine, airbag, ABS, instruments, parking sensors etc.
  • view live data from the sensors within the car
  • reset service lights (both fixed and variable service intervals)
  • read stored and intermittent fault codes
  • graph and log live data with the car running
  • automatically read fault codes from all car systems in a single search
  • perform basic setting functions, adaptations and soft coding
  • activate service functions, such as Electronic Park Brake (EPB) to allow brake pad changes
  • supports bi-directional output test and component actuation
VCDS software features:
  • over 25,000 fault code definitions
  • free software updates

VCDS-Mobile Software

Using VCDS-Mobile you can use your HEX-NET from most Wi-Fi enabled smart devices - (laptops, tablets, smartphones etc.), no matter what operating system is running on the device
  • In Access Point mode the HEX-NET appears as a Wi-Fi network that can be connected to by any smart device.
    In this mode you can use the more basic functions of VCDS-Mobile (e.g. auto-scan, fault codes, live data) with no need for an internet connection.
  • In Infrastructure mode, the HEX-NET connects to your existing Wi-Fi network, so it can use your internet connection.
    This allows VCDS-Mobile to connect to the cloud and enables the full suite of VCDS features, such as soft coding, basic settings, output tests, security access etc.
Please note: VCDS-Mobile is currently still considered a "beta" release and so should not be relied upon on its own. If performing an essential task on a vehicle we would recommend having a Windows laptop available as a backup.
Technical support for VCDS-Mobile is only available through the Ross-Tech Forums.

Important Coverage Notes:

  • Many 2020 and newer model year VAG vehicles are fitted with an SFD diagnostic firewall, which prevents full function coverage without a security token obtained from VW.
    For more details see our SFD help page.

  • Coverage for the Mk1 Volkswagen Crafter / LT3 (2006-2017 model, 2E/2F chassis) is not as comprehensive as other VAG models, as the diagnostics systems are based on the Mercedes Sprinter.
    Ross-Tech have some function information on this page, but if you require coverage for a specific function we would recommend posting a question on the Ross-Tech forums (including the VIN of the vehicle) before purchasing to check support.

  • VCDS does not support the new Volkswagen Amarok (VW Amarok MK2) 2022 onwards. This is a Ford-based vehicle and requires Ford diagnostic software, such as FCOM

Package contents

Packages include:
  • Genuine Ross-Tech VCDS HEX-NET PC-to-car USB / Wi-Fi interface cable
  • USB link cable
  • VCDS HEX-NET 'Quick Start' Guide
  • VCDS Software updates at no additional charge
  • Foam lined plastic carry case
Please note that the HEX-NET interface does not ship with software on CD - the full, licensed version of the software can be downloaded on receipt of the interface (full details provided with interface)

Buy with confidence - Gendan Ltd are an official VCDS UK distributor

PC requirements


The minimum system requirements for the VCDS software are:
  • Desktop, laptop, notebook or tablet Windows PC.
  • 1GHz dual-core x86/x86-64 (Intel or AMD) processor.
    Machines running Windows 10/11 on 64-bit ARM CPUs (e.g. Surface Pro 11th gen.) are also now supported.
  • 2GB RAM (4GB or more recommended).
  • Windows 10 or 11 (32 and 64 bit editions).
  • Approx. 250MB of hard disk space.
  • USB port. (Included cable is USB type A. Type C cables can be purchased separately).
Computers of a lower spec, or running Windows Vista, 7, 8 or 8.1 may work but are not officially supported.

More information

To visit the Ross Tech website for more information, please select an option below:
"Ross-Tech", "HEX-NET", "VCDS", "VCDS-Mobile" and the VCDS logo are registered trademarks of Ross-Tech, LLC in the USA, used with permission.
Gendan Limited are an authorised distributor of Ross-Tech products in the United Kingdom.
Our VCDS interfaces are supplied to us direct by Ross-Tech LLC in Lansdale, PA, USA.

Product comparison

Below is a comparison of the VCDS packages we offer.

Please click a product link to view more information on the required product.

Package Name HEX-V2® USB HEX-NET®
Home user Enthusiast Professional Enthusiast Professional
VIN Limit (help!) 3-VIN 10-VIN Unlimited 10-VIN Unlimted
Price including fully-registered VCDS software
(inc VAT and delivery) 		Interface only:
£222.00
With case:
£225.00
'Plus' bundle:
£245.00 		With case:
£299.00
'Plus' bundle:
£319.00 		With case:
£499.00
'Power' bundle:
£530.00 		With case:
£430.00 		With case:
£625.00
'Plus' bundle:
£649.00
 
Connection to PC USB USB/Wi-Fi
Coverage Years Interface only / with case: 1996-Current date;
Plus / Power bundles: 1992-Current date
Recommended for Professional Use
VCDS-Mobile included
Compatible platforms Windows VCDS: Windows

VCDS-Mobile: Platform independent
Supports dual
K-Line (2002+ Audi A4, A6 models)
Supports VW Crafter Mk1 (2006-2017)
(Partial support)
(Partial support)
Supports VW Crafter Mk2 (2017-on)
Supports Lamborghini models
Acts as a "dongle" for VAG-COM, No "Software Activation" required
(Registration required)
(Registration required)
Protection from the "Aftermarket Radio Problem"
Electronic
Electronic
Status/Activity LED
4 colour
Multiple LEDs
Supports cars which require a direct CAN connection
Supports Diagnostic Over IP (DOIP) connection
(Blue 'HN2' interfaces)
Field Upgradeable Firmware in Interface
"Turbo" Mode for Measuring Blocks on newer KWP-2000 ECUs
'2x2' adaptor lead for pre-1996 VW & Audi included
(in Plus / Power bundles)
Adaptor lead for VW LT van included
(in Power Bundle)
(in Plus Bundle)
3 metre USB extension lead included
(in Plus / Power bundles)
20cm OBD-II Extensiom cable included
(in Plus Bundle)
Hard plastic carry case included
(except 'no case' version)

Frequently asked questions

Our most frequently asked questions about VCDS are answered below:

Will it work on MacOS / Linux / iOS / Android?

No, the VCDS desktop program is Windows software, for Windows 10 or newer.
If you wish to use another device consider the HEX-NET® interfaces. The HEX-NET can be used wirelessly through the VCDS-Mobile® software with any modern Wi-Fi enabled computer, tablet or smartphone.
VCDS-Mobile does not offer the complete functionality of the Windows VCDS application though. You will also still require access to a Windows PC to register your interface.

What happened to the HEX-USB / Micro-CAN interfaces?

The HEX-USB interface had been in use by Ross-Tech since 2004, updating to support new vehicles and protocols via firmware updates. In 2016 Audi introduced some new systems which for the first time Ross-Tech were unable to support with the hardware in that cable. The new generation HEX-NET and HEX-V2® interfaces are able to support these models and are firmware upgradeable to support future changes.

Why are the new cables VIN limited?

Ross-Tech have always wanted to offer the same level of coverage to home users and garage owners alike, but don't think it's fair for a home user working on one car in their spare time to have to pay the same as a garage who are using the product every day on customer cars and making money from its use. The advent of cars offering their VIN (chassis number) electronically has given them a way of tailoring the cost to the way the product is used. Uwe from Ross-Tech has explained it more fully in the VIN limit FAQ here.

What is restricted by VIN limits?

You can still run an Auto Scan, read & clear fault codes and view live sensor data from as many cars as you like.
(If you directly connect to a control module (e.g. Select > 01. Engine), or use the 'Clear All DTCs' function, VCDS will ask if you wish to store the VIN, but selecting Cancel will still allow the connection to continue).
It is only when you try to use any more advanced functions that VCDS will ask if you wish to store the car's VIN (and it will always ask you first, before using one of your VIN allocations).
Again, for more details see the VIN limit FAQ here.

What happens if I need more VINs?

When you store a VIN it is added permanently and cannot be removed. You can however upgrade your interface's license from 3-VIN to 10-VIN and from 10-VIN to unlimited.
The upgrades are £169 each (including VAT) and are available here.

What about SFD?

Some 2020 or newer models have VW's 'SFD' diagnostic firewall, which prevents coding and adaptation changes unless you can authenticate with VAG's servers. Ross-Tech are currently working on adding SFD unlocking into a future release of VCDS.
See our dedicated Help article for more details.

Can I upgrade my HEX-USB+CAN to a new generation interface?

If you have registered your HEX-USB+CAN interface with Ross-Tech and are "in good standing" with them, Ross-Tech do offer upgrade paths to the HEX-V2 unlimited or HEX-NET unlimited packages, which we can usually offer on their behalf.
This is only available on interfaces assembled by Ross-Tech in the USA (some resellers build their own interfaces under license and are not eligible for the upgrade scheme).
If you would like to upgrade your interface, please contact us, with the serial number (HCxxxxxx) of your interface.

Software updates

As with previous Ross-Tech products, software updates are free for the life of the cable with HEX-NET interfaces.
However, the HEX-NET interface may only be used a limited number of times before you must register it (for free) with Ross-Tech.
A "use" is a connection to any control module, so you may need to register it after running your first Auto-Scan.

To register your interface simply follow the instructions in this video from Ross-Tech:


The VCDS software installed on your PC will automatically inform you when software updates are available, and will offer to install the update itself.

You will also need to update the "firmware" of the interface cable though - this is the operating software stored inside the interface itself.
Ross-Tech recommend checking for firmware updates at least once a month, and after any VCDS software update.
To check for firmware updates, follow the instructions in this video:


Product reviews

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1 customer has reviewed this product so far, with an average score of 5/5
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Review submitted on 05/02/2020 by Richard Mann
The best diagnostic / programming tool I ve ever used, just wish they did ones for other makes, they level of information that can be found and the ease to which it works is amazing when you compare to generic tools, or ones for other makes.
if you have or work on Vw Audi group cars this is a must


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