Malwarebytes Activation Server Unreachable Error: Fix Guide

Encountering the Malwarebytes Activation Server Unreachable Error can be frustrating, especially when you need your device protection up and running. This issue typically prevents users from activating their Malwarebytes subscription or trial version, leaving their system unprotected.

But fear not! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to resolve this issue efficiently, ensuring that your Malwarebytes installation works seamlessly again.

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What Is the Malwarebytes Activation Server Unreachable Error?

The “Activation Server Unreachable” error occurs when Malwarebytes is unable to communicate with its activation server, preventing the software from validating your license key or subscription. This issue can occur during the installation process or after entering a valid license key.

Several factors may contribute to this problem, including network issues, server downtime, firewall interference, or outdated software versions.

Let’s dive into the possible causes and their solutions!

Possible Causes of the Error

1. Network Connectivity Issues: Malwarebytes requires a stable internet connection to reach its activation server. If your internet connection is unstable or disrupted, the activation process may fail.
2. Firewall or Antivirus Blocking: Firewalls or other antivirus software installed on your computer may block Malwarebytes from accessing the internet, which results in the “Activation Server Unreachable” error.
3. Server Downtime: Sometimes, Malwarebytes’ activation servers could be temporarily down for maintenance or due to technical difficulties. In such cases, the issue lies with the server, not your device.
4. Incorrect Date and Time Settings: If the date and time on your system are incorrect, Malwarebytes may fail to connect to the server.
5. Outdated Malwarebytes Version: Running an outdated version of Malwarebytes can cause compatibility issues, including activation problems.
6. DNS Server Issues: Problems with your DNS server may prevent Malwarebytes from connecting to the activation server.

How to Fix the Malwarebytes Activation Server Unreachable Error

1. Check Your Internet Connection

The first step is to ensure that your internet connection is working properly.

• Test Your Connection: Open a browser and visit any website to confirm that your internet is active.
• Restart Your Router: If your connection is slow or intermittent, try restarting your router to refresh the connection.
• Switch to Wired Connection: If you are using Wi-Fi, try switching to a wired Ethernet connection for a more stable connection.

Once your connection is stable, try activating Malwarebytes again.

2. Disable Firewalls or Other Security Software Temporarily

Your firewall or other security software may block Malwarebytes’ access to the activation server. To check if this is the issue, temporarily disable your firewall or other security programs and try the activation process again.

How to Disable Windows Firewall:

1. Open the Control Panel and go to System and Security.
2. Click on Windows Defender Firewall.
3. In the left panel, click on Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.
4. Select Turn off Windows Defender Firewall for both private and public networks.

Note: Remember to re-enable your firewall after the activation is complete.

If you are using third-party security software, temporarily disable it and try the activation again.

3. Check Malwarebytes Server Status

Before diving into complex solutions, it’s always a good idea to check if Malwarebytes’ activation servers are down for maintenance or experiencing technical issues. Sometimes, the problem isn’t on your end.

• Visit the Malwarebytes Status Page or their official social media accounts to check for any reported outages or ongoing maintenance.

If the servers are down, there’s nothing you can do but wait until they’re back online.

4. Verify Date and Time Settings

Incorrect system date or time settings can cause issues with server communication. To fix this, make sure your device is set to the correct date and time.

How to Set the Date and Time:

1. Right-click on the Date and Time in the bottom right corner of the screen.
2. Select Adjust date/time.
3. Ensure that the Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically options are turned on.
4. If needed, manually adjust the date and time to match your time zone.

After adjusting the time, try activating Malwarebytes again.

5. Update Malwarebytes to the Latest Version

Running an outdated version of Malwarebytes can result in activation issues. Ensure that you have the latest version of Malwarebytes installed.

How to Update Malwarebytes:

1. Open Malwarebytes and click on the Settings icon (gear icon).
2. In the General tab, scroll down to the Application Updates section.
3. Click on Check for Updates to see if a newer version is available.
4. If an update is available, install it and restart Malwarebytes.

Try the activation process once more after updating.

6. Change DNS Servers

Sometimes, DNS server issues may prevent your device from connecting to Malwarebytes’ activation server. You can change your DNS settings to use a different DNS server.

How to Change DNS Settings:

1. Open Control Panel and go to Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click on Change adapter settings on the left.
3. Right-click your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select Properties.
4. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
5. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses.
   • Preferred DNS: 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS)
   • Alternate DNS: 8.8.4.4 (Google DNS)
6. Click OK to save the changes.

After changing the DNS, restart your device and try activating Malwarebytes again.

7. Reinstall Malwarebytes

If none of the above methods work, reinstalling Malwarebytes might resolve the issue by fixing any corrupted files or settings.

Steps to Reinstall Malwarebytes:

1. Uninstall Malwarebytes from your system through the Control Panel or Settings.
2. Download the latest version of Malwarebytes from the official website.
3. Install the fresh copy of Malwarebytes.
4. Try activating your license again.

Conclusion

The Malwarebytes Activation Server Unreachable Error can be a temporary setback, but by following these troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the issue and get your Malwarebytes software activated and working correctly again.

From checking your internet connection to reinstalling the software, these solutions cover the most common causes of the error. If you continue facing activation issues, Malwarebytes support is always there to assist you further.

Ensure your device stays protected and free from malware by resolving this activation issue as soon as possible!