I am receiving a temporary activation has expired message when trying to open my CS3 applications.

When I try to 'Re-Activate' using the 're-Activate' button at the bottom of the error screen I get an Activation error that I have no connection, which I clearly do as I am on the internet now.   There is a comment about HTTPS and that it might not work behind some firewalls and that I should check my Proxy settings or consult my system administrator.   What would I be checking the Proxy settings for?

After following the links on the Adobe site (regarding Adobe's aging activation servers):

What are my options?     

Provide your current CS3 or Acrobat 8 serial number for either of these options:

• Upgrade to the latest and greatest! Take advantage of this special offer to upgrade to Creative Cloud (CS3 owners) or Acrobat DC (Acrobat 8 owners). Get the world’s best creative tools or PDF solution – including mobile applications, cloud-based storage, and free updates – at an amazingly low price.
• Receive a new serial number and installer  Get a new serial number and installer so you can reinstall CS3 or Acrobat 8 applications successfully. These special versions do not require activation.

I sign into my Adobe account, enter my serial number and am presented with a new serial number to use with the 'special version of the app provided below'.  I record the number then continue to uninstall my existing version.

I then use the chart at the bottom of the page to download the replacement CS3 Installer and I download both the files for the English International, Universal language options (and yes my cookies have been cleared and are enabled and my laptop has everything required.

Once the CS3 Design Standard has been downloaded, I open it and follow the setup instructions.   The files load and the install prompts me to click the 'Finish' button. 

- It might be interesting to note I have not been prompted for my new serial number at any point along the way.

I open my Applications folder and click on the one of the CS3 applications (Photoshop) and low and behold even with the replacement installer I am presented with the exact same error message I had in the beginning, the activation error.

I am now in a continual loop and am still unable to use my CS3 apps, quite frustrating.  Can you help??

Thanks. LT