how do I activate Windows 2012 Server Standard Evaluation ?

Discussion in 'Windows Server' started by amartin99, Feb 16, 2014.

  1. amartin99

    amartin99 MDL Novice

    Apr 15, 2013
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    #1 amartin99, Feb 16, 2014
    hello
    I have about 10 working key's for win server 20012
    but I was setting up a VPS and made the mistake of using MS's Eval as a download link to install from
    bloody thing use a dif type of code and all my licenses are useless

    how to I get this thing activated
    hate to re install just for this
     
  2. leebo_28

    leebo_28 MDL Senior Member

    Jun 12, 2011
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    #2 leebo_28, Feb 16, 2014
    I imagine they are beta keys anyway, being for Server 20012:beta::rocket:
     
  3. EFA11

    EFA11 Avatar Guru

    Oct 7, 2010
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    #3 EFA11, Feb 16, 2014
    eval needs removed and new install needs done as far as i know, sorry bud
     
  4. amartin99

    amartin99 MDL Novice

    Apr 15, 2013
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    #4 amartin99, Feb 16, 2014 (OP)
    well when I put in my Key's it said I need to either install the normal copy or use an eval key
    but I also feer im gona have to re install
     
  5. EFA11

    EFA11 Avatar Guru

    Oct 7, 2010
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    #5 EFA11, Feb 16, 2014
    Last edited by a moderator: Apr 20, 2017
    I suppose you could try removing the key and adding the proper one.

    in an elevated (open with admin) command prompt.
    type:
    Code:
    slmgr /upk
    uninstalls the eval key

    and
    Code:
    slmgr /ipk YOUR-KEY-HERE
    installs a key

    Ive never really messed with eval much to know whats what with it, might be worth a shot though.
     
  6. s1ave77

    s1ave77 Has left at his own request

    Aug 15, 2012
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    #6 s1ave77, Feb 16, 2014
    Last edited by a moderator: Apr 20, 2017
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  7. EFA11

    EFA11 Avatar Guru

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    #7 EFA11, Feb 16, 2014
    oh well that's easy thanks Mr. Pooch :D
     
  8. s1ave77

    s1ave77 Has left at his own request

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    #8 s1ave77, Feb 16, 2014
    Remembered, that a Mod gave that hint some time ago and found it again :D. Unfortunately that option afaik only works for the Server OSs.

    That way you can also convert Standard/Datatacenter to their Core versions instantly :cool2:.
     
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  9. Draker

    Draker MDL Novice

    May 4, 2010
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    #9 Draker, Feb 16, 2014
    Key Change Failed, Had to Reinstall

    For info,
    I got key error when trying to permanently activate an evaluation/pre-view installation of Windows Server 2012 R2.
    Used <DISM /online /Get-TargetEditions> and saw no conversion or upgrade options. So did a fresh install of WSE2012R2.
    Discovered the existing Storage Pool was read only on the new install. Had to manually attach the virtual disk using the Storage Pools Server Manger.
    Discovered files other than in root in the Storage Pool were read as if corrupt. Had to Update-Storage Pool to get new WSE2012R2 to successfully read the files.
    Was able to reconnect clients to existing client backups.
    WSE2012R2DC running good now with thin provisioning, mirrored, and deduplication.