asked on

Windows Server 2008 activation

Had sbs 2003 on my office server. Tech guy said I should upgrade. He installed some sort of evaluation copy of Windows Server 2008 R2 Std. When he finished he said I would have to buy server 2008 and activate it in the next 180 days.
Well I have 45 days left and need to get on it.
My questions:
-I have written down to purchase, "Microsoft Win Server STD 2008 R2 64bit x 64eng
1 pk OEM" (~$659)
I have four workstations. Is this the correct version I need to purchase?
-What kind of time am I looking at to activate my evaluation copy?
-I see on my server that there is a place in CntrlPanel-System that will allow you to change the "Product Key" Is this as simple as changing this number or is it more involved?

Thanks

masterpcs

You can extend the evaluation period by doing the following.

Click Start, and then click Command Prompt.
Type slmgr.vbs -dli, and then press ENTER to check the current status of your evaluation period.
To reset the evaluation period, type slmgr.vbs –rearm, and then press ENTER.
Restart the computer.

Another option is to get a technet sub. you will be able to take adv of all products.

5g6tdcv4

Yes you will not need to reinstall to use the "full" version.
Just use the change product key applet and your server will be good to go

drprm1

ASKER

I dont want to reset the evaluation period and have to restart the server every few months.
I want to activate it.

dhoppel

I believe that is indeed the correct licensing you've mentioned, but you'll also want 4 CAL (Client Access Licenses) that allows your 4 workstations to access the server.

Yes it is as easy as changing that product activation code.

drprm1

ASKER

So Im going to place the install disk in and the applet will show up after it recognizes I have the trial version?

dhoppel

You should no longer need the disk for anything, all you are purchasing are Product keys. The trial version is the same as the full version, just has an expiration that entering a valid Product Key will remove.

ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION

5g6tdcv4

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drprm1

ASKER

Thanks

dhoppel

That's the same thing I said... but you accepted his solution? Grrrrrrr.

drprm1