How to get iWork DVD working without SN?

November 14, 2009 10:38 AM

I'm here at my aunt and uncle's trying to install an iWork 2009 DVD they just bought. However, after installation, it asks for a serial number! Looking around on the web, I see that iWork 2009 on DVD has no serial number. One possible factor is that they had the iWork 2006 trial on their computer, which I deleted. I suspect that there is some errant file left over from this causing the issue, but I don't know. Any idea?
posted by zachawry to computers & internet (5 comments total)

You could call Apple.
posted by rhizome at 11:13 AM on November 14, 2009

There seems to be a contradiction.

This page shows an iWork 09 screenshot that says "You'll find the serial number on the Installing iWork 09 booklet."

But then the article goes on to say Apple has stopped requiring it. Is there one on the booklet?

Otherwise, give Apple a call, they are usually pretty good about helping you figure things out.
posted by The Deej at 11:51 AM on November 14, 2009

Well, you could use a trick people that are up to no good use to convince it it's a retail version that doesn't need a serial number:

sudo defaults write /Library/Preferences/com.apple.iWork09.Installer InstallMode -string 'Retail'
posted by floam at 12:02 PM on November 14, 2009 [5 favorites]

Once upon a time Claris (apple) asked for a serial number. There was an entry box and everything. The booklet just noted, with a smile, that the serial number field was to be left blank.
posted by mmdei at 1:27 PM on November 14, 2009

are you sure you're starting the '09 versions? the "upgrade" doesn't upgrade - it installs alongside. (this is really annoying, as I had '08 icons in my Dock and always ended up starting the wrong version.) you'll want to trash the '06 trial, and maybe kill the Preferences if there are any. (Office:mac trials tend to screw up the prefs and make your purchased copy think it's the trial. I don't think iWork is bad about that but I can't remember ever using the trial.)

the retail box version of '09 doesn't have a serial, no, but the '06 version (and '08) did.
posted by mrg at 2:39 PM on November 14, 2009