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What is a KMS?
The Microsoft Key Management Server (KMS) is a part of the Microsoft Volume Activation 2.0 solution and is used to activate volume licensed Microsoft products on University owned and managed devices, when connect to Grizznet-Secure, GrizzVPN, or campus ethernet.
How does a KMS work?
The Microsoft Key Management Server activates a client for a period of 180 days each time it is connected to Grizznet-Secure, GrizzVPN, or campus ethernet. Once a machine is activated it will attempt to communicate with the same KMS every 7 days to renew it's activation resetting its license counter back to 180 days. If the machine is unable to connect to the KMS it will keep trying to do so every 2 hours until it is successful.
If the machine hasn't been able to reestablish communication to the KMS after 180 days, the machine will become unlicensed and go to it's 30 day grace period and notify the user of this change. If the machine is not activated against the KMS after the 30 day grace period it will enter a reduced functionality mode until it is able to connect to it's KMS.
I have a new machine. How long do I have before I must activate it against the KMS?
You have a 30 day grace period to activate your new machine.
What is a MAK?
The Multiple Activation Key is a one time activation of the product that requires communication with Microsoft's activation service. MAK activation keys are no longer offered, you must use KMS activation.
Do my Microsoft Office applications have to be open in order to activate?
No. The Microsoft Office suite will activate even if it is not opened.
Troubleshooting activation
Please contact the OU Technology Center for assistance with activation.
What can I active using KMS?
The following products are eligible to be activated using KMS, while connect to Grizznet-Secure, GrizzVPN, or campus ethernet
- Windows 10
- Microsoft is discontinuing support for this product on October 15th, 2025. This key will be removed as an option on this date.
- Windows 11
- Windows Server 2016
- Windows Server 2019
- Windows Server 2022
- Windows Server 2025
- Office 2019
- Microsoft is discontinuing support for this product on October 15th, 2025. This key will be removed as an option on this date.
- Office 2021
- Office 2024
Additional Support
- OU Technology Center
- 44 Oakland Center
- Rochester, MI 48309-4479
- (248) 370-4357
- Office Hours: M-F 8:00am - 5:00pm