If you receive the error 'This license key must be upgraded,' verify you are using the correct version of Parallels. Detailed solutions are provided in the Parallels Community Forums
If you have previously activated Parallels Desktop on your current Mac and can't find the key, you can use this method to retrieve it:
Every authentic product license issued by Parallels adheres to a strict formatting structure: : Exactly 30 characters. Format : Five groups of six letters and numbers. Separators : Hyphens separating each block.
: If you purchased through the Parallels online store or an authorized reseller, the 30-character key was sent to the email address used during checkout. parallels desktop 18 activation key 30 characters
If you purchased Parallels Desktop 18, your key is attached to your . Here is how to find it: Navigate to the official Parallels Account login page. Log in with the email address used during purchase.
Ensure the key is valid for Parallels Desktop 18. Security and Licensing Warning
Business Edition keys often use a single 30-character 'Volume' key for multiple seats. Management instructions are available on Parallels Business Licensing Are you currently seeing an error message when entering your key, or are you trying to locate a lost key from a past purchase? How to find my activation key for Parallels Desktop for Mac If you receive the error 'This license key
A: This is highly risky. Many such keys are stolen, cracked, or counterfeit. Using them can lead to deactivation or malware infection. It is always safest to buy directly from Parallels or an official partner.
Once you've installed Parallels Desktop 18, follow these steps to activate it:
If you encounter an error message stating, "The previous activation key has not been accepted by the license server," don't panic. This can sometimes happen due to server issues or if you have performed hardware changes. The fastest solution is to contact Parallels support directly, as they can reset your license key on their end. Separators : Hyphens separating each block
You do not need to risk your system's safety to use Parallels. There are several safe, authorized ways to get a working license. Use the Free Trial
: Log into your existing Parallels MyAccount, or register a new account.
Activating Parallels Desktop 18 with a valid 30-character activation key offers numerous benefits: