# Activation (/enterprise-offline/sc-key-server/activation)

<Steps>
<Step>

### Distribute SonicCloud [#distribute-soniccloud]

IT gives each user the SonicCloud installer and your enterprise activation credential.

</Step>
<Step>

### Activate [#activate]

The user launches SonicCloud. SonicCloud sends an activation request to SC Key Server.

</Step>
<Step>

### Receive the SC Key [#receive-the-sc-key]

SC Key Server checks your contract dates and remaining seats, records the activation and returns an SC Key for that installation.

</Step>
<Step>

### Work offline [#work-offline]

From then on, SonicCloud checks the key on the device and needs no connection to SC Key Server.

</Step>
</Steps>

<Callout title="Connectivity">
  First activation needs access to the SonicCloud-hosted activation service. A
  renewal or replacement activation also needs a connection at that moment.
</Callout>

Next: [Seats](/enterprise-offline/sc-key-server/seats).