How to Resolve the Adobe Digital Editions Device Authorization Limit
Question details
The user is unable to authorize their e-book reader in Adobe Digital Editions because the maximum device authorization limit has been reached.
- Product
- Adobe Digital Editions
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to authorize an e-book reader after system crashes, resets, or software reinstallations.
- Observed behavior
- Adobe Digital Editions displays an error stating that the maximum number of authorized devices has been reached, preventing the authorization of the current e-book reader.
Ensure your computer is connected to the internet and have your correct Adobe ID and password ready before you attempt to manage your device authorizations.
Deauthorize Unused Computers and E-book Readers
Manually clear out old authorizations from your computer and connected devices to free up slots for your current e-reader.
Adobe allows a limited number of device authorizations per account. Removing old authorizations allows you to register your active devices properly.
Launch the Adobe Digital Editions application on your computer.
Press the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + D (on Windows) or Cmd + Shift + D (on Mac) to bring up the deauthorization screen, and confirm the action.
Connect your e-book reader via USB. Select it under the 'Devices' menu in the left sidebar of ADE, click the gear icon, and select 'Erase Device Authorization'.
Click 'Help' from the top menu and select 'Authorize Computer'. Enter your Adobe ID and password to authorize the computer, then repeat the process to authorize your connected e-reader.
Contact Adobe Support for an Authorization Reset
If you cannot manually deauthorize old devices due to hardware failure or system crashes, you must request Adobe Support to reset your limit.
Discover a Powerful Alternative for Your Document Needs
While Adobe Digital Editions is required for DRM-protected e-books, WPS Office provides a comprehensive, lightweight, and free solution for viewing, editing, and managing your standard PDF documents, Word files, and spreadsheets without complex authorization limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the device authorization limit for Adobe Digital Editions?
Adobe typically allows you to authorize up to 6 computers and 6 mobile devices or e-readers with a single Adobe ID.
Why did I hit the authorization limit if I only use one e-reader?
System crashes, hard drive formats, or OS reinstallations can cause Adobe to recognize your computer as a completely new device, unintentionally consuming multiple authorization slots over time.
Can I read my DRM-protected e-books without Adobe Digital Editions?
Standard DRM-protected EPUBs and PDFs usually require Adobe Digital Editions or a supported third-party reader app authorized with your specific Adobe ID to be opened.
