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G
G-V
Participant
October 20, 2025
Question

Unable to Reactivate Adobe InDesign CS6 License After Windows Reinstallation

  • October 20, 2025
  • 1 reply
  • 168 views

Hello,
I’m trying to reactivate Adobe InDesign CS6 on my Surface Book 2 after a clean reinstallation of Windows 11.

The software was previously installed and working on this same device. After reinstalling the OS, I attempted to reinstall CS6, but received a message stating that the serial number is invalid or revoked.

I understand CS6 is a legacy product, but since the license was already active on this device, I’m hoping there’s a way to restore it.

I’ve contacted support and reviewed Adobe’s documentation, including:

  • Invalid or Revoked Serial Numbers (helpx.adobe.com/x-productkb/global/invalid-revoked-serial-numbers.html)
  • Adobe Genuine Program (adobe.com/genuine.html)

I’d appreciate any advice or insight from the community.

Thank you,
Giampaolo

1 reply

BobLevine
Community Expert
BobLevineCommunity Expert
Community Expert
October 20, 2025

Nobody here can help. If Adobe customer support can't help, you'll need to either subscribe to InDesign (month to month or annual basis) or find an alternative software to use.

 

CS6 is 13 years old. Good luck.

G
G-VAuthor
Participant
October 20, 2025

Thank you for your reply.
I understand that CS6 is no longer supported, and I’m aware of Adobe’s current subscription model.
However, my license was purchased legitimately and was already active on the same device before a clean OS reinstall. I’m simply trying to understand if there’s any possible way to restore access or if Adobe offers any transition options for users in this situation.
I appreciate any further clarification or direction you can provide.

Best regards,
Giampaolo

BobLevine
Community Expert
BobLevineCommunity Expert
Community Expert
October 20, 2025

Again, nobody here can help and if Adobe won't/can't you're on your own.

 

I know it's not what you want to hear but that's the long and short of it.

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