What Does Activation Key Mean?

An activation key is a code that is used to register or activate a software application. It is typically composed of letters and numbers, often with hyphens in between activation key segments.

Techopedia Explains Activation Key

In the earlier days of software production, the activation key was the common means by which a vendor authenticated customers. Software products were shipped in boxes, on floppy discs and later on compact discs, along with an activation key that allowed the user to get access to the application after purchase.