Instructions

Windows Evaluation to Full Version: A Simple Convert Guide

If you’re running a Windows Server evaluation version and want to unlock its full features, this guide will walk you through the simple steps to convert your server to a fully licensed version. With clear instructions, you can complete the upgrade process without any hassle and continue using your server with all its functionalities.

1. Upgrade Guidelines

Before proceeding, consider the following upgrade limitations:

  • You can only upgrade to the same or higher edition of Windows Server. For example, an evaluation copy like ServerStandardEval can be upgraded to either ServerStandard or ServerDatacenter.
  • Upgrading a host with the Active Directory Domain Controller (AD DC) role is not recommended. To upgrade, demote the DC to a member server first. Ensure that your domain has at least one additional DC to transfer FSMO roles.
  • If NIC Teaming is set up on the server, it must be disabled before initiating the upgrade process.
Upgrade Guidelines

2. Check the Current Server Edition

To check which version of Windows Server you are running, use these steps:

  • Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin) from the menu.
  • In the prompt window, type the following command and press Enter: DISM /online /Get-CurrentEdition.
  • The result will indicate your current Windows Server edition. If it’s an evaluation version, it will be clearly mentioned.
Current Server Edition

3. Enter Full Version Key and Activate

To convert from the evaluation version to the full version:

  • Open Command Prompt or PowerShell with admin rights.
  • Use this command to enter your full version product key: slmgr /ipk XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX (replace the “X” placeholders with your actual key).
  • Press Enter to input the key.
  • After entering the key, activate the full version by typing: slmgr /ato and pressing Enter.
  • This will initiate the activation process for the full version of Windows Server.
Server Activation

4. Verify Activation

To confirm that your Windows Server has been successfully activated:

  • Open Command Prompt or PowerShell and type: slmgr /dli and press Enter.
  • You should see the activation status indicating Licensed, and the product key type should show Retail or Full Version.
  • Restart your system to ensure all changes are properly applied.

Now your Windows Server has been upgraded and activated, unlocking all the full version features for use.

Verify Activation

Troubleshooting and Activation Support

If you experience any issues during activation or need assistance, our support team is here to help. Reach out to us anytime via live chat at https://officedigital.io/ or email us at [email protected]. We’re available 24/7 to ensure a smooth setup process.


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