Unable to activate older version of Parallels Desktop

OK, I've bought numerous versions of Parallels Desktop over the years, I just bought Parallels 18 a couple of weeks back. However, this thread is on an old version issue I am facing.

I am trying to install Parallels 11 on an older Mac, for which I have bought a licence a few years ago. The license is listed I'm by account, under "Legacy Licenses" tab.

However, as soon as I install Parallels Desktop 11, from Parallels' own servers (https://kb.parallels.com/5802), and installing the software, activation fails with some "check your internet connection" error. Chat support claims that they do not provide support for this older version, while at the same time they insist that they do not block me from using an older version.

What's going on here?

 

I have the exact same issue. Trying to activate Parallels 11 on an older Mac and can't get past the Sign In screen. Why is Parallels blocking activation? My old computer will not take a newer version and I have a valid unused legacy license. Parallels KB is no help. The supposed fixes do not work. C'mon Parallels, do the honorable thing here and let us activate our old version.

 

None of the solutions in your private emails, forums or knowledgebase work as I and others have stated. The bottom line is that Parallels is blocking registration of older versions with valid legacy licenses which some of us with older hardware need to use for various reasons. I have been a loyal Parallels user, upgrading 6 times since v6. How about a little respect, Parallels!

 

Still blocked & no response. Shame on Parallels!

 

Responded to your email.

 

I responded to your new email. Those step did not work.

 

I don't think you understand the issue. It's not the license key that's the issue, it's the Sign In screen that's blocking registration. I can't get past the Sign In screen to enter a license key.

 

I have tried everything including connecting my computer directly to my modem, bypassing my router. Same problem. There is something in Parallels 11 registration Sign In that is blocking the internet. The only thing it will allow me to do is upgrade to a new version. I think that says it all, Parallels!

 

9 days later no further response from Parallels. They are blocking registration of legally obtained legacy product licenses, no doubt, in a effort to get users to upgrade. But those of us with older computers can't upgrade so it's a lose-lose situation. Sadly, Bootcamp is the only option. Goodbye, Parallels.