Activation Issues

License activation usually works on the first try, but here's how to fix the most common problems.

"Invalid license key"

Problem: You entered your key, but the app says it's invalid.

Solution:

1. Check for typos — Copy your key from the confirmation email and paste it (don't retype). Make sure you include all hyphens.
2. Check the key format — A valid key looks like XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX (four groups of characters separated by hyphens).
3. Try a different key — If you have multiple Karafuru licenses, make sure you're using the correct key for this product.
4. Restart the app — Close Karafuru and open it again. Go to Settings → Activate License and try once more.

If the key still doesn't work, contact support with the exact error message.

"License already in use"

Problem: The app says your key is active on another machine.

Solution:

One license only works on one machine at a time. You have two options:

Option 1: Use a different license If you own multiple licenses, use a different key on this machine.

Option 2: Transfer the license Deactivate the license on the other machine, then activate it here.

If you no longer have access to the old machine, contact support to deactivate it remotely.

warning

Sharing one license key across multiple machines violates the terms of service and may result in account suspension.

"Cannot connect to activation server"

Problem: The app tries to activate but fails with a connection error.

Solution:

1. Check your internet — Make sure you have an active internet connection. Try opening a website to verify.
2. Restart your router — Unplug your router for 10 seconds, then plug it back in
3. Disable firewall temporarily — Your firewall or antivirus may be blocking Karafuru. Temporarily disable it and try activating again. Re-enable when done.
4. Try a different network — If you have mobile hotspot or a second internet connection, try activating on that to rule out a local network issue
5. Wait a few minutes — Our servers may be temporarily unavailable. Try again after 5 minutes.

If the error persists after 30 minutes, contact support.

"Activation limit reached"

Problem: You've used up all available active licenses for your plan.

Solution:

Each license is permanently bound to one machine ID. Your subscription tier limits how many devices can run simultaneously:

1. Check your active licenses — Count how many devices are currently running
2. Option 1: Upgrade your plan
   • Pay Per Event: 1 active license → Upgrade to Pro (2 active) or Studio (5 active)
   • Pro: 2 active licenses → Upgrade to Studio (5 active)
3. Option 2: Create a new license for a new device
   • Each device needs its own license from your dashboard
   • You can create as many licenses as you need; the tier limits only affect simultaneous active licenses

Still stuck?

See Getting Help to contact support with your license key and error message.

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Related: Activate Your License • Manage Subscription