License Server: “Forbidden key(s)” error appears during activation

Description
When activating licenses in License Server mode, a message indicating forbidden key(s) can appear. This usually happens after multiple failed or conflicting activation attempts (for example, repeatedly trying to activate keys already at their maximum allowed count). The keys are generally not forbidden on the activation server itself, but the local installation flags them based on repeated errors.

Solution

Preferred DDRR method (Deactivate, Delete, Rename, Re‑add):

1. Close all Desktop software connected to this license installation.
2. Open License Server Configuration window as administrator.
3. Deactivate all license keys listed.
4. Delete all keys from the configuration window.
5. Close the configuration tool.
6. In the License Server installation folder, locate RINFO32.DAT and rename it (for example, to RINFO32.DAT.OLD).
7. Reopen License Server Configuration window as administrator.
8. Re‑enter the original license keys and activate them again.
9. Start the client software and confirm it launches without the “forbidden” message.

Alternative legacy method:

1. Navigate to the software installation directory (e.g., C:\Program Files\ACDXXXX).
2. Click the address bar, type cmd, and press Enter.
3. In the Command Prompt, run: lich.exe /force
4. Reopen the software and check whether the activation issue is resolved.