Shared Computer Activation

Shared Computer Activation (SCA) is the Microsoft 365 Apps activation mode for multi-user environments — Azure Virtual Desktop, Windows 365 multi-session, Citrix, terminal servers, RDS hosts, and similar. Without SCA, Office activation binds to a device (with a 5-device-per-user limit); on shared hosts, that quickly exceeds the limit. With SCA, activation is per-session and short-lived (the user gets a token valid for a few days), not tied to the host machine. Enabled via the Office Deployment Tool, Intune Microsoft 365 Apps profile, or registry / Group Policy. Required for any multi-user Office deployment; not needed for single-user devices.