Replacing a lost Windows 2003 Server Standard R2 Installation CD
Et al,
I have a client who has been using:
Windows Server 2003 R2 Standard Edition Service Pack 2 (build 3790)
They have been using this same for the past 6-7 years. Since the initial installation, my client has moved offices twice - Murphy's Law, some where in these moves their installation copy was lost. Now, we want to move to a newer hardware platform and we need the installation CDs to install the "Windows Server 2003 R2 Standard Edition".
Why don't we move to the latest version of Windows Server?
> Good question. My client is a property management company and as such, they use a vintage property management software application that is ONLY supported on this version of Windows Server - Of course it is.
So, how can my client get a replacement for the missing installation CD?
NOTE: I have Google this question and there are third party vendors who will replace the CDs but at the full retail price. Since we have a valid Product Key, we are hoping to pay for a replacement set + shipment.
Any suggestions?
Any Secrets as to how to get these replaced?
Inquiring minds would REALLY like to know...
Rojosho
I have a client who has been using:
Windows Server 2003 R2 Standard Edition Service Pack 2 (build 3790)
They have been using this same for the past 6-7 years. Since the initial installation, my client has moved offices twice - Murphy's Law, some where in these moves their installation copy was lost. Now, we want to move to a newer hardware platform and we need the installation CDs to install the "Windows Server 2003 R2 Standard Edition".
Why don't we move to the latest version of Windows Server?
> Good question. My client is a property management company and as such, they use a vintage property management software application that is ONLY supported on this version of Windows Server - Of course it is.
So, how can my client get a replacement for the missing installation CD?
NOTE: I have Google this question and there are third party vendors who will replace the CDs but at the full retail price. Since we have a valid Product Key, we are hoping to pay for a replacement set + shipment.
Any suggestions?
Any Secrets as to how to get these replaced?
Inquiring minds would REALLY like to know...
Rojosho
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ASKER
Et al,
First, thank you all for you inputs, all very good.
Some answers to your questions:
1. The version that is needed is:
Windows Server 2003 R2 Standard Edition Service Pack 2 (build 3790)
> Could do with a SP1 or an initial release.
2. We want a legal solution, so illegal copies is not an option here.
3. I will contact the closest MS office tomorrow to see what they have to say. Thank you "davorin" for the URL, I will put it to good use :)
I will keep you all posted.
Rojosho
First, thank you all for you inputs, all very good.
Some answers to your questions:
1. The version that is needed is:
Windows Server 2003 R2 Standard Edition Service Pack 2 (build 3790)
> Could do with a SP1 or an initial release.
2. We want a legal solution, so illegal copies is not an option here.
3. I will contact the closest MS office tomorrow to see what they have to say. Thank you "davorin" for the URL, I will put it to good use :)
I will keep you all posted.
Rojosho
If the copy of Windows came with the server, then you are out of luck - you CANNOT legally transfer the license.
If you purchased a retail copy, then Microsoft is POTENTIALLY the only legal source of replacement as I understand it.
If you purchased a volume license copy, then you may have access to download the ISOs directly from Microsoft's volume license site. HOWEVER, 2003 is nearly 11 years old and now 4 versions outdated. As a result, they may no longer have/make 2003 CDs available either for a shipping charge or download.
The best solution (because there are other security issues when dealing with an 11 year old OS) is to UPGRADE the line of business app to something that is compatible with a newer system, preferably 2012, but 2008 R2 at least.
If you purchased a retail copy, then Microsoft is POTENTIALLY the only legal source of replacement as I understand it.
If you purchased a volume license copy, then you may have access to download the ISOs directly from Microsoft's volume license site. HOWEVER, 2003 is nearly 11 years old and now 4 versions outdated. As a result, they may no longer have/make 2003 CDs available either for a shipping charge or download.
The best solution (because there are other security issues when dealing with an 11 year old OS) is to UPGRADE the line of business app to something that is compatible with a newer system, preferably 2012, but 2008 R2 at least.
ASKER
Hello Leew,
Thank you for your input. I have already been down that path of contacting the property management software company to get a new version and there is none - Yes, very poor. In this environment, if it works don't touch it seems to be the 'rule of thumb'.
Rojosho
Thank you for your input. I have already been down that path of contacting the property management software company to get a new version and there is none - Yes, very poor. In this environment, if it works don't touch it seems to be the 'rule of thumb'.
Rojosho
Will this LOB software run under Windows XP? or does it do an explicit check for the OS Version and Type? You've tried the various compatibility modes? Microsoft has tools available to try and shim these incompatible programs.
If there is no newer version then there should be a different product. Continuing to use a product that is so old it forces you to use unsafe software is not a good thing.
ASKER
Et al,
Sorry for the delay in my update.
I attempted call Microsoft, twice, and finally got to the 'Parts Replacement Team' and they actually knew what my question involved - Short answer is, MS does not have any more replacement CD for Windows 2003 Server. The agent suggested that I go online and purchase it, which I have found several offerings on Ebay. The problem is now, I need to determine the number of CALs that we have (I inherited this account, so I do not have all of the information as to the evolution of this server).
Does anyone know how I can determine the number of CAL that our copy of Windows 2003 Server Standard has?
Rojosho
Sorry for the delay in my update.
I attempted call Microsoft, twice, and finally got to the 'Parts Replacement Team' and they actually knew what my question involved - Short answer is, MS does not have any more replacement CD for Windows 2003 Server. The agent suggested that I go online and purchase it, which I have found several offerings on Ebay. The problem is now, I need to determine the number of CALs that we have (I inherited this account, so I do not have all of the information as to the evolution of this server).
Does anyone know how I can determine the number of CAL that our copy of Windows 2003 Server Standard has?
Rojosho
Have them check their accounting records for purchases. In an audit, that's the best proof. Otherwise, buy new ones (they downgrade).
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I would suggest that you virtualize the existing system ASAP. Your client should be aware that Server 2003 is no longer available via Microsoft and its end of life is approaching rapidly (177 Days ).. By virtualizing the existing configuration you can replace the hardware easily and backup/restore is a snap.
I have confirmed that S2K3R2 is available on MSDN but only standard and enterprise versions. Which version do you need? I have these files locally, I have requested moderation attention to see if I can direct you to my about page so that I could send you a private password protected link via email. This may be against EE TOS