FREEHAND MX registration from a CD

[Neil27351035zdss]

Hi Guys. I have had a copy of Freehand MX on CD (original) since 2008. I have upgraded my computer with Windows 11. When entering the Serial number for registration the app comes up with an error saying it cannot connect to the internet. The telephone option is not available as the number provided has long expired. If I click on buy it magically seems to connect to the internet. How else can I register my Freehand copy onto my new computer?

[Ben M]

Registration servers were shut down years ago and Freehand MX is not compatible with Windows 11.  If you have a creative cloud license you can switch to Illustrator which I believe can still open the Freehand file format.  If not, you might need to look for alternative solutions.  

[Neil27351035zdss]

Thank you so much for your reply. How unfortunate though.

[Mylenium]

You can probably simply hack in the serial number in the registry. None of that was "live" back then and the installer really just pinged a server that something has been installed, but did not have anything to do with actual activation. You could probably research it and on soem long forgotten web site there may be soem instructions.

Mylenium

[Neil27351035zdss]

Thanks Mylenium

[Abambo]

I will never understand people buying new hardware, installing new OSs, and still wanting to run their aging software on that. I understand however, that when people know how the old software works, that they want to stick with that. However, the older the software, the newer the OS, you really should expect big problems. Good luck with that.

[Neil27351035zdss]

I would understand if it never worked on the new OS, but it seems to work
perfectly well. The only problem is it is on a 30 day trial until it is registered which doesnt seem possible. I
 dont use it commercially, only for recreation purposes, so if
possible, I dont want to spend unnecessary money. I also abhor the new
rental system where you dont own your copy. "You will own nothing
and be happy.". 

[Abuse removed by moderator]

[kglad]

@Neil27351035zdss 

you need to activate adobe programs for them to operate beyond the trial period.  since cs2, that's done via automatic contact with adobe activation servers after the serial number is entered.

because cs2, cs3 and cs4 activation servers no longer function some people in this forum advised you it was impossible to activate freehand mx.  mylenium advised you it was possible because freehand mx predated cs2.

he suggested you research how to edit your registrty to activate it.

[Mia274676776ext]

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