Knowledgebase

Activating/Registering ESET Smart Security or ESET NOD32 Antivirus - FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

1. I have a 3-computer license and receive an error during activation - what do I do?
   If you receive an error message (such as "Activation failed") during activation, it is likely because you already activated your key when you installed on the first machine. You only need to activate using your activation key during the first installation. After activating you should have received a username and password which should be used to activate all subsequent installations and reinstallations. 
   

   NOTE:

   When installing and activating on your second and third machines, follow the steps below:
    

   1. Insert your CD into the second machine to begin your second installation.
   2. Follow the on-screen instructions to install your product.
   3. When you reach the Product Activation window, be sure to select Activate using Username and Password and complete the installation using your ESET-issued username and password.
      
      • Can't find your credentials? Click here to visit the Lost License page.
       
   4. Repeat steps 1-3 for your third installation.

    

2. How do I activate my ESET security product?
   
   If you purchased your ESET security product from a third-party vendor, you must activate the software to receive a valid Username and Password. For detailed instructions on activating your ESET security product, visit the following ESET Knowledgebase article: How do I activate and download my ESET security product?
    
3. Do I need to activate my ESET security product?
   If you already received a Username and Password from ESET then you do not need to activate, but make sure you enter your Username and Password into your ESET security product. Without a properly entered Username and Password, you will not be able to receive the virus signature updates that are critical for maximum protection.
    
4. What password should I use when completing the online form?
   The password for the activation form is made up by you and is unrelated to the ESET Username and Password that will be emailed to you upon successful completion of the activation form.
    
5. Why am I getting an error message telling me that the serial number or activation key I entered is incorrect?
   Make sure to enter the serial number/activation key exactly as it appears. Your serial number/activation key is case sensitive and any hyphens are necessary. A big "0" is the number zero (0), a little "o" is the lowercase letter o.
    
6. How do I know if I have successfully completed the activation process?
   Open the main program window by clicking the ESET icon  next to the system clock or by double-clicking Start All Programs  ESET  ESET Smart Security or ESET NOD32 Antivirus. Then click Update from the main menu on the left and verify that your ESET security product successfully updates. After activating your ESET security product license, it may take 12 to 24 hours for the new expiration date to be displayed. You can also verify that your product has been activated by checking your license expiration date.