If you prefer not to have a file sitting in the directory, you can import the key into the registry.
A useful feature for managing your Total Commander license is to move the file into the Windows Registry. This prevents the key from being deleted during updates, allows it to be used for all users on a machine, and eliminates the "1-2-3" button prompt upon startup. Wincmd Key To Reg zip
a dedicated converter tool like the one documented by petermad to turn wincmd.key into a .reg file. Add the key to the registry using the following path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Ghisler\Total Commander Value Name: key (binary value). If you prefer not to have a file
Method 2: Registering via Registry (For Portable/Company Use) Wincmd Key To Reg zip
Drop tcmdkey.zip in the installation directory.