Had to Reinstall Elements 12 due to Windows reinstall, but it won't let me open it

Question

I had to re-install Photoshop Elements 12 (I had the serial number) due to having to reinstall Windows which deleted all non-Microsoft apps.  It seemed to install fine but now when I try to open the Photo Editor, it keeps asking me to log into Adobe to register it. I keep logging into Adobe but that doesn't help.  I really appreciate your advice as to how to fix this!

susanb91429133 · Accepted Answer

By searching for how to get to a real person via the chat (type in Agent), I got to a real person who looked at my issue. The problem is annoying but at least I have an answer.  My Photoshop Elements 12 is too old.  It certainly worked with my Windows 11 but I guess reinstalling it was not possible.  It would be nice if ANY single one of the help answers I found even mentioned this.

Greg_S. · Answer

Try activating offline, using the instructions found in this HelpX article.

The article is for Elements 19 but I understand that it may also work for Elements 12. Please report back if you are successful.

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