Mcafee Knowledge Base

How to Do it

How to Activate or Redeem a McAfee subscription with a product key or activation code

Visit mcafee.com/activate to securely activate your McAfee subscription using your 25-digit product key. Follow the step-by-step instructions to download and install your protection software seamlessly.

Written by mcafeecom activate
Back to articles Written by mcafeecom activate

How to Activate or Redeem a McAfee subscription with a product key or activation code

<<Click Here to Find Your Product Key or Activation Code>>

Use this guide if:

  • You purchased your security software from a retail store and have a physical product card with a 25-digit product key.

  • You bought your software from an online store and have a digital receipt in your email containing a 25-digit product key.

  • You need to locate your product key or activation code.


NOTE: Your product key is also known as your activation code. If you experience issues while redeeming your product key, contact Customer Support.


How to Activate or Redeem Your Subscription?


Follow the steps below to activate your software subscription. Once activated, you can download and install your security software. If you're unsure where to find your product key or activation code, see the How to Find Your Product Key or Activation Code section below.


TIP: Always activate your subscription using the official website link. Some fraudulent sites impersonate legitimate activation pages. Activating your subscription on a scam site may result in losing your product key.


  • Go to the official activation page at mcafee.com/activate.

  • The page should look like this:



  • In the Enter your code field, type your 25-digit product key/activation code.

  • In the Enter your email field, type your email address.

  • Click Next.

  • Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install your software.


How to Find Your Product Key or Activation Code?

Different codes serve different purposes. Below is a guide to help identify and use your correct activation code.


25-digit Product Key / Activation Code:-


Example: 12345-XXXXX-12345-78910-12345 When you receive it:


  • When you purchase from a retailer (physical or online)

  • Where to find it:

    • Look on the physical product card from the store.

    • Check your email for a digital receipt. Usage:

  • Use this code to activate your subscription at mcafee.com/activate.


16-digit Activation Code:


  • Example: 7WPSTXXXXXPSTXVT When you receive it: After activating your software subscription

  • Where to find it:

    • Available in your account downloads section after signing in at mcafee.com/activate

  • Usage: Used to activate specific features in the software. Features are usually activated automatically, but you may need to enter this code if prompted.


15-digit Serial Number:


Example: V98XXXXHUBCGYWN


  • When you receive it: When starting the download for macOS software

  • Where to find it:

    • Displayed on the download screen. Note it down as you'll need it later.

  • Usage: Required to complete installation on macOS.




What to Do If Activation Fails?

Follow these steps based on the error message displayed:


  • "Web page does not exist" or "Invalid product key" Verify your product key.

    • Ensure you have entered the correct 25-digit code. Make sure the URL is mcafee.com/activate and try again.


  • "We’re sorry, but we’re having technical difficulties at this time.

    • Please try again later."

    • Wait for about 30 minutes. Retry activation.


  • "This product key has already been used"

    • Check if you have already activated the software on another device.

    • If you are reinstalling, log in to your account and download the software directly.

    • If you believe someone else used your key without permission, contact Customer Support.


  • "Your subscription has expired"

    • Check your account to verify your subscription status.

    • Renew your subscription if necessary to regain access to security features.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


Q: Can I use my product key on multiple devices?

A: It depends on your subscription type. Check your plan details to see the number of devices covered.


Q: What should I do if I lost my product key?

A: If you purchased online, check your email receipt. If bought from a retailer, contact their customer service. You can also log in to your account to retrieve the key.


Q: Is it safe to buy product keys from third-party websites?

A: No, always buy from official sources or authorized retailers to avoid scams and fraudulent keys.


Q: How do I renew my subscription?

A: Log in to your account and navigate to the subscription section to renew.


Q: Can I transfer my subscription to a new device?

A: Yes, log in to your account, deactivate the old device, and activate the software on your new device using your product key.


Did this answer your question?

Sad smiley Neutral smiley Happy smiley
Operated by

© 2025