What is the difference between KMS and MAK, and how do I know which activation method to use?
KMS uses a KMS key to establish an activation service that is hosted locally in your environment. Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 systems can activate by connecting to the KMS host. A MAK is used for one-time activation of a computer with Microsoft’s hosted activation services. You can use the MAK to activate systems individually or via a proxy. Deciding which method(s) to use in your environment will depend on several factors. The Volume Activation 2.0 Reference Guide and Planning Guide are helpful resources.
Related Questions
- I am planning to deploy Windows 7 and Office 2010 using KMS as the activation method. Which Windows Server versions can I use to set up a KMS host computer?
- I want to reimage Windows 7 Professional by using MAK activation rather than KMS. What if I don’t have enough MAK activations to do so?
- What is the difference between KMS and MAK, and how do I know which activation method to use?
