Microsoft 365 and Office | Install, redeem, activate | For business | Other
Processes in Microsoft 365 for setting up Office apps, redeeming product keys, and activating licenses.
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Dear Nicolas,
I hope you’re having a good day.
Based on the information provided, the most important point is that CSP perpetual software licenses using MAK keys are typically managed through the CSP partner/reseller that supplied the license. Microsoft documents that CSP software uses MAK activation keys and that activation-related requests are handled through the CSP support process.
In your scenario, where the original device has suffered a permanent hardware failure and you are moving the installation to a replacement machine, I would recommend the following:
- Attempt activation on the replacement device first.
- CSP MAK keys are generally provisioned with more activations than the exact number of purchased licenses to accommodate scenarios such as hardware replacement and reinstallation.
- If activation fails due to an activation limit or similar licensing message, contact the CSP reseller/partner that sold the license.
- They are the appropriate party to review the entitlement and, if necessary, work with Microsoft Partner Support regarding activation-related requests.
- If the reseller is unable to resolve the issue, they can escalate through Microsoft's CSP support channels, which are the supported route for CSP software key activation issues.
One additional note: with MAK-based activation, uninstalling Office from the old machine or losing access to failed hardware does not automatically return or "release" a previous activation. If the key has reached its activation limit, that typically requires review through the licensing support process rather than a self-service reset.
I hope this helps clarify the available options and points you to the correct support path. Wishing you a smooth reactivation process on the replacement device.
Warm regards,
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