When launching a connection to a virtual desktop, the desktop is prompted to activate the Microsoft Office suite.

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Use one of the following options to resolve this issue:

• Recommended: Set up a KMS host when many desktops are configured in a VDI-in-a-Box environment. KMS activation is transparent to the users. If Microsoft software detects hardware changes and requires reactivation, Office reactivates with the KMS host without notifying the user.
  KMS activation is available with Microsoft Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2003, or a Windows 7 client to connect to a KMS host.  

• Activate the licenses for the virtual desktops before providing the desktop to users. On the first start of the virtual desktop, run the ospp.vbs /act command.
  It is recommended to run the ospp.vbs /puserops command on the base image to allow a non-administrator to activate the key.
  The command performs the license activation and users will not be prompted for license activation.
  Note: If the hardware changes on the hosting side, for example, the Virtual Machine is moved to another server, the user will be prompted for reactivation. The license reactivation requires another MAK key for any new hardware platform.
  For more information on the ospp.vbs script, refer to The ospp.vbs Script.

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Problem Cause

This behavior is a Microsoft anti-piracy measure. Virtual Machines running Office are considered separate instances.

This article provides a resolution when the desktop is prompted to activate the Microsoft Office suite when launching a connection to a virtual desktop.