Pros and Cons of Using Windows Server 2003 and 2008 Evaluation Copies

The main reason would be that an evaluation version usually has time limits and it will then force you to purchase and then re-install the full version or to use the software with reduced functionality.

Take a look at this link for more info: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2021579

Specifically the part with this:

"Question: Can you convert the evaluation version to a full version?

Answer: Although this conversion is not blocked, we do not support an upgrade from an evaluation version to a full version or changing the product key to a full version key. To upgrade to a full version, you must install non-evaluation media. If you change the product key to Full Version, the visual evaluation references in Winver and as displayed in Slmgr /DLV output are removed, but the WLMS service remains on the system and the media retains its evaluation status."

please what features are turned off in evaluation copies?

All of them.

From the same link as above: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2021579

"Question: What happens when the 180-day evaluation period expires?
Answer: When the evaluation period expires, you experience the following:

Windows changes the desktop wallpaper to a solid black background.

A watermark appears in the lower-right corner of the desktop together with the following warnings:

Windows license is expired
This copy of Windows is not genuine

When you log on to Windows, you are prompted with the following options:

Activate now
Ask me later

The system shuts down every hour.
The following event ID is logged in the Application log:

Log Name:   Application
Source:       WLMS
Event ID:     100
Description: The license period for this installation of Windows has expired. The operating system will shut down every hour."

So to clarify - during the 180 day grace period, they are fully functioning operating systems.

After 180 days they cease to function unless upgraded.

And to clarify even more...lol.

Do not use any evaluation versions in any live full production environments.  Use them exactly as they are intended to be used.  As an evaluation version to determine if the solution should be purchased for your enterprise in a test environment.

Tribus - "The main reason would be that an evaluation version usually has time limits and it will then force you to purchase and then re-install the full version or to use the software with reduced functionality."

I thoroughly disagree - the MAIN reason is that it's a license violation.  Evaluation software is meant for EVALUATION.  Not sure why this seems to be a difficult concept to understand...

You are right Leew.  I was trying to say that in a way I guess.

:)

Oh well I guess my answer wasn't good enough that has the same link in it...