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Version: 4.x

MAX_USAGE Error

⚠️ Why this error appears​

The MAX_USAGE error occurs when your license exceeds the maximum number of allowed activations.

Each Headlockr license counts one activation per environment per Strapi project.

For example:

  • Local development → 1 activation
  • Staging → 1 activation
  • Production → 1 activation

This would result in 3 total activations.

Depending on your license type:

  • Individual → 1 activation
  • Developer → 3 activations
  • Agency → 10 activations

If the number of activated environments exceeds your license limit, Headlockr will throw a MAX_USAGE error during boot.

✅ What does not count as extra activations​

Running the same Strapi project in the same environment with horizontal scaling does not create additional activations.

Examples that do not increase activation count:

  • Kubernetes replicas
  • Docker container replicas
  • PM2 cluster mode
  • Horizontally scaled app services

Activation is tied to:

Environment + Strapi project

Not to the number of running instances.

Recommendation for Developers

If you frequently use multiple environments (local, staging, production), make sure your license tier matches your workflow. If you actively use development, staging, and production environments, we recommend the Developer license. It allows up to three activations, so you won’t need to frequently deactivate and reactivate environments during normal development workflows.

🔧 How to fix the error​

You can manage and revoke activations via the self-service portal:

👉 https://headlockr.io/account

From there you can:

  • View active environments
  • Revoke unused activations
  • Free up slots for new deployments