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How to Fix the Authorize Computer Problem in Adobe Digital Editions

Maira MehtabMaira Mehtab Oct 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is experiencing issues when trying to use the Authorize Computer option in Adobe Digital Editions.

How to Fix the Authorize Computer Problem in Adobe Digital Editions
Product
Adobe Digital Editions
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Attempting to authorize a computer using an Adobe ID to read DRM-protected eBooks or PDFs.
Observed behavior
The authorization process fails, the Authorize Computer option is inaccessible, or an error message is displayed when attempting to log in.
Before you start

Ensure you have an active internet connection and that your Adobe ID email and password are correct before attempting to authorize or deauthorize your computer.

Solution 1Recommended

Deauthorize and Reauthorize the Computer

Clearing the existing authorization data and signing in again is often the most effective way to resolve Adobe ID access and authorization issues.

Sometimes, corrupted authorization data prevents Adobe Digital Editions from connecting properly with your Adobe ID. Erasing this hidden data forces the software to create a fresh connection.

1
Open Adobe Digital Editions

Launch the Adobe Digital Editions application on your computer.

2
Trigger the Deauthorization Shortcut

Press 'Ctrl + Shift + D' on Windows, or 'Cmd + Shift + D' on a Mac, to bring up the hidden Deauthorize Computer screen.

3
Confirm Deauthorization

Click 'Erase Authorization' or confirm the prompt to remove the current Adobe ID data, then click 'OK'.

4
Reauthorize the Computer

Navigate to the 'Help' menu at the top, select 'Authorize Computer', enter your Adobe ID and password, and click 'Authorize'.

Deauthorize and Reauthorize the Computer
Authorization Restored: Once successfully reauthorized, your previously downloaded DRM-protected eBooks should now open correctly.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Authorize Computer option grayed out in Adobe Digital Editions?

This usually happens if the computer is already authorized, or if the software was installed without the necessary administrative privileges. Try using the Ctrl + Shift + D (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + D (Mac) shortcut to force the deauthorization screen to appear.

What does the 'E_AUTH_NOT_READY' error mean?

This error indicates a problem with the localized authorization data on your computer. Deauthorizing and immediately reauthorizing the computer often resolves this specific issue.

Can I read DRM-protected eBooks without an Adobe ID?

Yes, Adobe Digital Editions allows you to authorize the computer without an ID by checking a specific box. However, doing so means you won't be able to sync, transfer, or open those DRM-protected eBooks on any other devices.

How do I recover a forgotten Adobe ID password?

You can reset your Adobe ID password by visiting the Adobe account login page on your web browser and clicking 'Forgot password?'. Follow the email instructions to create a new password, then use it in Adobe Digital Editions.