Multiple Activation Key

A MAK is used for one-time activation with Microsoft's hosted activation services. Each MAK has a predetermined number of allowed activations; this number is based on Volume Licensing agreements and does not match the organization's exact license count. Each activation using a MAK with Microsoft's hosted activation service counts toward the activation limit. There are two ways to activate computers using a MAK:

• MAK Independent activation MAK Independent activation requires that each computer independently connect and be activated with Microsoft, either over the Internet or by telephone. MAK Independent activation is best suited for computers within an organization that do not maintain a connection to the corporate network.
• MAK Proxy activation MAK Proxy activation enables a centralized activation request on behalf of multiple computers with one connection to Microsoft. MAK Proxy activation is configured using the Volume Activation Management Tool (VAMT).
  MAK Proxy activation is appropriate for environments in which security concerns may restrict direct access to the Internet or the corporate network. It is also suited for development and test labs that lack this connectivity.

MAK is recommended for computers that rarely or never connect to the corporate network and for environments in which the number of computers needing activation does not meet the KMS activation threshold. MAK can be used for individual computers or with an image that can be bulk-duplicated or installed using Microsoft deployment solutions. MAK can also be used on a computer that was configured originally to use KMS activation-useful for moving a computer off the core network to a disconnected environment.