Acronis True Image Echo Server and Activation for OEM SBS

I have a question on something I intend to do but would like to know the outcome before hand.

I know that is asking a lot but I beg you to read my question....

I have an SBS2003 OEM install (not R2) on an HP ML350 server.

I want to use Acronis to clone the whole system and recover it on an 'almost' identical server. Different processor etc, but essentially it's the same model with same mobo etc.

I possibly want to test the cloned server using Universal restore on a virtual machine too just to check it over.

My question is this:

I believe that the OEM version of SBS 2003 premium is protected by activation. I presume it was preinstalled. I have since done test installs using the media on the identical server and no activation was needed.

I believe this is because I used the HP Smartstart CD when installing so it was set up without needing activation.

If I copy the whole system to another machine using Acronis will it need activating?

If I copy the whole system to a virtual machine (different hardware) will it need activating?


I am guessing that restoring to an identical 2nd server won't need a reactivation.

But I am also guessing that restoring to a virtual machine WILL need reactivation.

Anyone know the answers?

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