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Participant
July 21, 2025
Question

Can't activate cs6 even though my account shows no activated devices.

  • July 21, 2025
  • 3 replies
  • 150 views

First off, I realize this software is 13 years old. I update 1 file every July, and it just doesn't make sense to be forced into a subscription model.

 

That said, I recently got a new computer. I properly deactivated my old cs6 on that computer. My Adobe accoount shows my registered product, and also shows 0 activated devices. My new computer won't activate cs6, as it says I have too many activated devices.

 

I still have access to my old computer, but now that cs6 is deactivated on it, I\m not sure that\s much help...

 

Customer support told me to subscribe to their new services...but I just want access to the product I paid for, and properly deactivated 😕😕

 

I saw numerous posts with cs6 activation issues, but they all seemed to stem from not deactivating the old copy, so this case seems different. Any great ideas?

 

TIA

3 replies

Nancy OShea
Community Expert
Community Expert
July 22, 2025

1. Online device deactivation only works with SUPPORTED products like Elements or Creative Cloud. It never worked for legacy products because Creative Suite is too old. ☹

 

2. Did you deactivate Creative Suite from your previously installed devices first?
That's critically important because your individual license has a strict activation limit. Remote deactivation is not possible.
- https://helpx.adobe.com/download-install/kb/activate-deactivate-products.html
- https://helpx.adobe.com/download-install/kb/activation-deactivation-help.html

If the old devices are dead or no longer in your possession, you're stuck. You won't be allowed to activate CS on another device.

 

MODERN OPTIONS:
==============
FREE Acrobat Reader -- view, comment, print & sign PDF.
https://www.adobe.com/acrobat/pdf-reader.html

Paid Acrobat Pro -- the complete solution for creating and saving PDF.
https://www.adobe.com/acrobat/acrobat-pro.html

Photoshop Elements or Premiere Elements (3 year license, no subscription needed).
https://www.adobe.com/products/photoshop-elements.html

Creative Cloud Photography Plan:
https://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/photography.html

Creative Cloud Bundles & Single Apps for mobile, web & desktops
https://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/plans.html

Nancy O'Shea— Product User & Community Expert
kglad
Community Expert
Community Expert
July 21, 2025

your account info regarding activated devices isn't relevant.

 

deactivation from a computer must convey that deactivation to adobe's servers.  among other things that requires an os and default browser that meet adobe security requirements.

 

the only way to deactivate is using a computer that conveys the deactivation successfully.