0xC004C021
MAK extension limit exceeded
Microsoft's activation server refused the Multiple Activation Key (MAK) because it has used up its allowed activations. A MAK can only be activated a limited number of times, and more activations have to be requested.
Symptoms
- Activation fails with: The activation server reported that the Multiple Activation Key extension limit has been exceeded.
- The code appears when you activate a device with a volume key (MAK).
Causes
- The MAK has reached its activation limit. Microsoft states that by design a MAK can only be activated a limited number of times.
How to fix it
Check whether the device is already activated
Open Command Prompt and run the command below. If License Status reads Licensed, the device is activated and needs no further attempt.
slmgr /dlvCount your activations
Note how many devices you have activated with this key, including virtual machines and test installations. Including this number in your message helps our support check your case.
Do not work around the limit
Do not use keys from other sources or unofficial activation tools. They do not add activations to the key from your order.
Contact our support
Microsoft's remedy is to request more activations through the Microsoft Licensing Activation Centers. For a key from a Lizensa order, contact our support instead with your order number and the full error message, and add the number of activated devices if you know it.
How the activation limit works
Microsoft gives each MAK a set number of activations and counts activations with its hosted service online and by telephone alike. Our guide How MAK activation limits work explains the details.
Volume Office: check its status separately
If you also activate a volume edition of Office, such as Office LTSC Professional Plus 2024, with a MAK from your order, check its status separately from Windows before another attempt. Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:
cscript "C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office16\OSPP.VBS" /dstatus
If the output shows LICENSED for your product, Office is activated and needs no further attempt.
Related codes
Use our contact form; support answers Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 17:00 CET. Error 0xC004C020 is the closely related code: Microsoft documents it as a MAK that has exceeded its limit, with the same remedy of requesting more activations.
Still need help?
If error 0xC004C021 keeps blocking activation after these steps, our support team can check your key and license channel directly.
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