How MAK activation limits work

A Multiple Activation Key (MAK) can activate more than one computer, but not an unlimited number. Microsoft sets a fixed number of activations for each key. This page explains what counts, how to avoid wasting activations and what to do when the limit is reached.

How the limit works

• Microsoft assigns each MAK a predetermined number of allowed activations.
• Every activation with Microsoft's hosted activation service counts toward that number, online or by telephone.
• Microsoft calls MAK activation perpetual for Windows, and volume Office does not need reactivation unless the hardware changes significantly. A significant hardware change can therefore require a new activation.
• A new activation also counts when it follows a reinstallation of the operating system on the same PC.

The organisation that holds a volume licence agreement can track performed and remaining activations with Microsoft's Volume Activation Management Tool (VAMT), and can ask Microsoft by phone to increase the number of activations. If your key no longer activates, contact our support with your order number and the error message.

How many devices your order covers

Install and use the software on the number of devices stated in the product description. If you need more devices, you need more licences.

Avoid wasting activations

1. Check before you activate again. If Windows or Office already shows as activated, do not enter the key a second time.
2. Plan hardware changes. A significant hardware change, such as a new main board, can require a new activation.
3. Avoid test installations. Every virtual machine and every trial install that you activate counts.

Check the activation status

Windows: open Command Prompt and run:

slmgr /dlv

"License Status: Licensed" means Windows is activated. The "Partial Product Key" line shows the last five characters of the installed key, which you can compare with your key.

Office LTSC or other volume Office: open Command Prompt as administrator and run:

cscript "C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office16\OSPP.VBS" /dstatus

The status line reads ---LICENSED--- when Office is activated. On earlier Office versions the script may be in C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office16 instead.

When the limit is reached

Windows or Office then refuses the key with an error. Do not use other keys or activation tools to get around it. Instead:

1. Write down the full error code and message.
2. Note how many devices you have activated with the key.
3. Contact our support with your order number, the error and that number.

If something goes wrong

0xC004C020: the MAK has exceeded its limit. All activations for this key are used. Contact support with your order number. See error 0xC004C020.

0xC004C008: the activation server determined that the key could not be used. Our error page explains it as a key that has exceeded its activation limit. Contact support with your order number. See error 0xC004C008.

0xC004F074: no Key Management Service could be contacted. The PC is still using the generic volume key, not your MAK. Install your own key and activate again. See error 0xC004F074.

Online activation fails without a limit error. Try telephone activation; it counts the same way. Windows 11 Pro EDU and Pro for Workstations can only be activated online. See Activate Windows or Office by phone.