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Fix Word for Mac Activation Error: Maximum Device Limit Reached
Question details
The user cannot activate Microsoft Word or use premium templates on their Mac because the system states the maximum device limit has been reached, even though the Microsoft account shows zero devices.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Activating a Microsoft 365 subscription on Word for Mac to edit documents or use templates.
- Observed behavior
- Word displays an error indicating that 6 out of 5 devices are signed in. However, when checking the Microsoft account online, no devices are found, and the user is unable to add the Mac to the device list manually.
Ensure you have the login credentials for the exact Microsoft account associated with your active Microsoft 365 subscription before troubleshooting.
Sign Out of Unused Office Installations Manually
Since Mac devices do not appear in the Microsoft account device list, you must manually sign out of Office on your other computers to free up activations.
Microsoft 365 allows simultaneous activation on up to 5 devices. However, macOS devices currently do not display in the Microsoft account device portal. If you hit the limit, the system is likely counting hidden Mac activations or old PCs.
Open a web browser, navigate to the Microsoft Account portal, and sign in with your Microsoft 365 credentials.
Go to the 'Services & subscriptions' tab, locate your Microsoft 365 subscription, and click on 'Manage'. Look for the 'Installs' or 'Devices' section to sign out of any unused Windows PCs.
For other Mac computers you own, open Microsoft Word on those specific Macs, click the 'Word' menu in the top left, and select 'Sign Out'.
Restart your current Mac, open Word, and attempt to activate the software again.
Verify Your Subscription and Account Details
Ensure that you are signed in with the correct account that holds an active Microsoft 365 subscription, rather than a free or expired account.
Use WPS Office to Bypass Activation Limits
Tired of dealing with device activation limits and missing device lists on Mac? WPS Office is a lightweight, free alternative that offers seamless compatibility with Microsoft Word documents without restrictive device caps.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the Mac version.
- 2. Install and Open: Install the application and open your existing .docx files directly in WPS Writer.
- 3. Start Editing: Start editing your documents immediately without complex subscription activation steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't my Mac show up in my Microsoft account devices?
Microsoft's account portal currently only displays Windows PCs and Xbox consoles. macOS devices do not populate in this list, even though they still count toward your 5-device Microsoft 365 activation limit.
How many devices can I activate Microsoft 365 on?
You can install Microsoft 365 on all your devices, but you can only be signed in and actively using Office apps on a maximum of 5 devices simultaneously.
What happens if I exceed the Microsoft 365 device limit?
If you exceed the concurrent limit, Office will prompt a 'Maximum Device Limit Reached' error, and your apps will enter reduced functionality mode, preventing you from editing, saving documents, or using premium templates.
