Open your browser, go to Photopea.com. It is an online Photoshop clone that can open PSD files, use layers, and even run some Photoshop plugins. It requires no install, no serial number, and works on any Mac.
You cannot run PSE 9 natively on macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or newer. Apple dropped support for 32-bit applications in Catalina. PSE 9 is a 32-bit PowerPC/Intel hybrid app. On Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3), it will absolutely not run. adobe photoshop elements 9 serial number mac install
Your only option: Create a virtual machine using VirtualBox (free) or VMware Fusion (free for personal use) and install Mac OS X Snow Leopard (10.6) or Lion (10.7) inside the VM. Alternatively, use CrossOver or Wine, but results vary. Open your browser, go to Photopea
Since Adobe’s servers are offline, select “I want to activate the software over the phone” or “Remind Me Later.” For Elements 9, "Remind Me Later" usually grants a 30-day grace period. Some legacy users report that simply entering the serial number during install bypasses online activation entirely if you disconnect your Mac from the internet before launching the installer. If you absolutely must use Elements 9: If
If you absolutely must use Elements 9:
If you only need the basic editing tools (layers, resizing, healing brush), GIMP or the browser-based Photopea replicates 95% of Elements 9’s functionality for free.
Given the massive headache of obtaining a valid serial number, bypassing dead servers, and building a vintage macOS virtual machine, the smart move is to upgrade or switch.