User-based activation allows activation on up to 5 devices per user.
The DNS record guided the request to Arthur’s server. The server received the request. It checked its internal database. It saw the previous 4 machines from the Marketing team. Now it saw Sarah’s machine.
Advance to the Server Roles section and check . Complete the wizard and click Install . Step 2: Download and Install the Office Volume License Pack
This does not work with Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise or any Office 365 subscription product. microsoft office 365 kms
Microsoft 365 Apps authenticate users via or a Microsoft Account. The license is tied to a user’s identity, not a machine’s hardware. When a user signs into Office, the activation is validated against their cloud subscription. This model makes KMS—a device-based, on-premises activation technology—obsolete for Office 365.
"Excellent," Arthur said. "You're all set."
Reply with "1" or "2" and I'll generate the requested piece. User-based activation allows activation on up to 5
It is crucial to understand the difference between activation methods to choose the right one for your organization. KMS Activation Microsoft 365 Subscription Activation Volume License / On-premise User-based subscription / Cloud Activation Target Device-based User-based Internet Required No (only for host-to-MS) Yes (every 30-90 days) Typical User Enterprises/Government Small-to-Mid Business/Individual Key Type Generic Volume License Key (GVLK) User Account Sign-in
: Use the cd command to enter your Office installation directory (usually under Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office16 ).
Activated via a local server key for organizations that don't want every machine to reach out to Microsoft's servers directly for activation. Microsoft Learn Setting Up KMS for Volume Office It checked its internal database
Run the executable on your KMS host server. This installs the administrative templates and permits the server to process Office GVLKs. Step 3: Configure the KMS Host Key
For IT administrators, manual activation might be necessary, especially for troubleshooting.
Microsoft is gradually moving away from KMS toward cloud-based activation and subscription models. However, KMS remains supported for at least through 2028. That said, Microsoft recommends newer technologies for modern deployments:
: Users activate the software by logging in with an authorized Microsoft Account or Entra ID.
: Licenses are not permanent; clients must reconnect to the host periodically—typically every 180 days—to remain activated.