## Activate GitLab EE with an Activation Code **(PREMIUM SELF)**
As of GitLab Enterprise Edition 14.0, you need an activation code to activate your instance. You can obtain an activation code by [purchasing a license](https://about.gitlab.com/pricing/) or by signing up for a [free trial](https://about.gitlab.com/free-trial/). This activation code is a 24-character alphanumeric string you receive in a confirmation email. You can also sign in to the [Customers Portal](https://customers.gitlab.com/customers/sign_in) to copy the activation code to your clipboard.
As of GitLab Enterprise Edition 14.1, you need an activation code to activate your instance. You can obtain an activation code by [purchasing a license](https://about.gitlab.com/pricing/) or by signing up for a [free trial](https://about.gitlab.com/free-trial/). This activation code is a 24-character alphanumeric string you receive in a confirmation email. You can also sign in to the [Customers Portal](https://customers.gitlab.com/customers/sign_in) to copy the activation code to your clipboard.
To begin the activation process with your activation code:
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@@ -155,4 +155,8 @@ and how to add additional seats can be found in the
### There is a connectivity issue
In GitLab 14.0 and later, to activate your subscription, your GitLab instance must be connected to the internet. If you have questions or need assistance activating your instance please [contact GitLab Support](https://about.gitlab.com/support/#contact-support).
In GitLab 14.1 and later, to activate your subscription, your GitLab instance must be connected to the internet.
If you have an offline or airgapped environment, you can [upload a license file](license.md#activate-gitlab-ee-with-a-license-file) instead.
If you have questions or need assistance activating your instance, please [contact GitLab Support](https://about.gitlab.com/support/#contact-support).
