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Karen_Enenkel
Participant
January 14, 2016
Answered

Why do I get: "Invalid activation code?" with CS6 on a MacBook Pro?

  • January 14, 2016
  • 1 reply
  • 801 views

Please Help!!

I have been trying to install CS6 on a new MacBook Pro (I have a valid license that can be found on my adobe.com account).  I keep getting an invalid activation code message no matter what I try.  Here is what I have done so far that has not worked:

1. Uninstalled and reinstalled the software

2. Deactivated CS6 on an old laptop running the software

3. Tried installing in trial mode and then tried to activate (as well as a straight install with a code)

4. Set up a new user and tried to install under the new user

5.  Basically, I have tried everything I saw as a possible solution when reading forum discussions about this topic

6. Serial number entered has been checked and re-checked many times--it is the one from my adobe.com account

7. Had a chat session a while back with an adobe representative but that particular case has been closed without solving problem and I can't reopen--and I can't get into "chat"

I have referred to the following forum documents when trying the above: "Invalid serial number error" and "Error: "The serial number is not valid for this product" | Creative Suite."

I am currently running OS El Capitan or 10.11.2 on a MacBook Pro (Retina, 15 inch, mid 2015).  Date and time are correct.  English language has been used consistently.

Did I say HELP already?!?

    This topic has been closed for replies.
    Correct answer Karen_Enenkel

    Thanks John for your help and suggestions!


    After trying your suggestions with no success, I was able to get on to a chat session with Adobe today.  I figured out I had 2 Adobe accounts with 2 email addresses.  The serial number I was using was for CS3 (I upgraded to CS6 from CS3).  When I finally stumbled on the second adobe account, I discovered the CS6 serial number and installation completed without a hitch.


    What a headache!  I think I will tattoo the serial numbers on my forehead:)

    Karen

    1 reply

    John T Smith
    Community Expert
    John T SmithCommunity Expert
    Community Expert
    January 15, 2016

    Invalid License http://helpx.adobe.com/creative-suite/kb/error-serial-number-valid-product.html

    That MAY be a false error message due to Mac El Capitan and OLD programs

    This information is a MUST DO to install old programs on Mac El Capitan

    -you may not get the same error message, but these some links that MAY help with old programs

    Install CS5 on Mac 10.11 https://forums.adobe.com/thread/2003455 may help (also for other than CS5)

    -also a TEMPORARY security change https://forums.adobe.com/thread/2039319

    -http://mac-how-to.wonderhowto.com/how-to/open-third-party-apps-from-unidentified-developers-mac-os-x-0158095/

    FAQ about Mac 10-11 https://forums.adobe.com/thread/1979303

    K
    Karen_EnenkelAuthorCorrect answer
    Participant
    January 15, 2016

    Thanks John for your help and suggestions!


    After trying your suggestions with no success, I was able to get on to a chat session with Adobe today.  I figured out I had 2 Adobe accounts with 2 email addresses.  The serial number I was using was for CS3 (I upgraded to CS6 from CS3).  When I finally stumbled on the second adobe account, I discovered the CS6 serial number and installation completed without a hitch.


    What a headache!  I think I will tattoo the serial numbers on my forehead:)

    Karen

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