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Server 2012 Downgrade to Server 2008R2

Hello!

Can anyone tell / show me how to downgrade Server 2012 OEM to Server 2008R2. Microsoft say it is possible, but it is IMPOSSIBLE to find the correct procedure and who I should contact...

Thanks,

Lee W, MVP

WIPE and RELOAD. Or install VMs and use 2012 as NOTHING more than Hyper-V host.

As for where to get 2008 R2 media - you bought OEM - the OEM MAY provide it to you if you ask them (probably at a fee and they are NOT obligated to) or YOU have to provide the media obtained legally. (OEM through a prior server purchase, Retail or Volume License through a prior purchase and you use that key. If there are any problems activating, you call in the number provided and explain you are using downgrade rights).

IanTh

see

http://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/winserver8gen/thread/0053861a-7cf1-4198-b2e8-f2ab9a573b0a

I dont think you can get the setup cd from M$ anymore though do you have a setup cd for windows 2008r2

alexbuckland1

ASKER

Thanks guys,

I have the media. I am still confused about the procedure. Do I just install 2008R2 and then call the activation hotline?

Ta

Lee W, MVP

> Do I just install 2008R2
YES.

> and then call the activation hotline?
Only if you have a problem activating.

alexbuckland1

ASKER

Solution:

Install 2008
Call activation centre
Enter 0000 until you get an operator
Explain your doing a 2012 downgrade
Read out your 2012 key
They give you a new 2008 key

Phew.

alexbuckland1

ASKER

I've requested that this question be closed as follows:

Accepted answer: 0 points for alexbuckland1's comment #a38819046

for the following reason:

The offical answer from Microsoft!

ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION

Lee W, MVP

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alexbuckland1

ASKER

All yours. Apologies, been working TOO much!