Activation is the process of verifying that a product license is valid when you start your software. Activation takes several forms, depending upon your license type, how you purchased your product, and the download method you used. When you first start your product, you see the Let's Get Started window. There, you select an option that corresponds to your license.
Tip: You can find the license type and activation method for your product in the Products & Services section of Autodesk Account. If you have a serial number, you'll find it there as well.
Single-user subscriptions
For most single-user subscriptions (with a license type of Autodesk ID), activation takes place automatically. You simply sign in with your Autodesk username and password.
Note:
Some single-user subscriptions (with a license type of Standalone) are issued with a product serial number. If your product has a serial number, you may need to enter it along with your product key when you sign in. (If you used the Install Now download method, your serial number and product key are entered and activated automatically.)
Multi-user subscriptions
If you have a multi-user subscription, provide your license and server information, as well as your serial number and product key.
Note: If your license is part of a network deployment, your administrator activated your product during the deployment process.
Perpetual licenses
If you have a single-user or multi-user perpetual license, enter your serial number and product key.