Troubleshooting authorization problems
Learn how to solve issues with authorizing Ableton Live online, such as error messages and Live asking for authorization at every launch. Troubleshoot common causes including browser settings, Live version, serial number, and hardware code.
Live does not authorize or times out
Error: "License does not match your Live installation"
Authorization problems using Google Chrome
Serial number is registered to another email address
Hardware Code
Live asks for authorization at every launch (Mac)
If online authorization still fails after troubleshooting using the steps below, please follow the guide to authorizing offline.
Live does not authorize or times out
- Empty your browser's cache. For how to do this on most browsers, follow this guide for How to Clear-Your Browser's Cache.
- Try authorizing again using a different browser; we recommend Chrome or Firefox.
- Temporarily disable any antivirus or firewall services during the authorization process. You can also add the Live application as an "exception" in your antivirus settings.
- On Windows, follow the linked steps to Run Live as an administrator.
Error: "License does not match your Live installation"
- Make sure you have the correct version of the program installer.
- Download the latest installer from your user account (the disc version is now outdated).
- When upgrading, e.g. from Live Trial to Live Suite, first uninstall (Windows / macOS) Live Trial, then download the Live Suite installer separately. Learn more about buying Live after using the free trial and visit the Live Upgrade FAQ.
Authorization problems using Google Chrome
- Try the authorization with a different browser such as Firefox.
- Use the Offline authorization method.
Note: There is a known issue for some users due to a recent update to the Google Chrome browser. External Protocol Handlers required in the authorization process are currently blocked or do not function correctly on some operating systems.
Serial number is registered to another email address
- Confirm the email address you are signed in with under the "Personal Details" section of your account.
As each Live license is for a single user it is only possible for a serial number to be registered to one email. If you are logged into Ableton.com with an address that your Live serial is not associated to, you will not be able to authorize.
Hardware Code
- Check the Hardware Code in the offline authorization dialogue box in Live's Preferences → Licenses Maintenance → Authorize Offline
The Hardware Code is a number generated by your computer and is different from the Live serial number. When authorizing offline, you will need to enter the Hardware Code on your account page to download the necessary file.
Live asks for authorization at every launch (Mac)
If Live asks for authorization at every launch on macOS in a single-user environment, follow the link for steps to resolve this.