Server 2012 R2 activation?

Discussion in 'Windows Server' started by 123qwerty, Feb 13, 2014.

  1. 123qwerty

    123qwerty MDL Novice

    Jun 15, 2013
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    #1 123qwerty, Feb 13, 2014
    Last edited: Feb 13, 2014
    Such a noobish question, but I'm bit confused. Readed many threads, and I'm not sure is activation for Server 2012 R2 possible? I know at least 2012 is in supported OS list in Windows Loader, but not 2012 R2. So is there an "tool" or something for 2012 R2, or is it better to go with 2012 and try Loader or what, advise needed. Also can I download the "trial" from MS directly and activate it with something like I did on 2008 R2, just used Loader on that. Sorry for such a noobish question, but would like to get answer for this, so what's the best way? Thanks for help!
     
  2. Carlos Detweiller

    Carlos Detweiller Emperor of Ice-Cream

    Dec 21, 2012
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    Yes, it is possible, and the tool you need to use is Microsoft Toolkit (MTK, using KMS activation). Windows Loader will support R2 only when an OEM:SLP key leaks.
     
  3. Tito

    Tito Super Mod / Adviser
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  4. 123qwerty

    123qwerty MDL Novice

    Jun 15, 2013
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    Wow, thanks for such a fast reply. So that should be "permanent" and safe way? Gonna download 2012 R2 then.
     
  5. Carlos Detweiller

    Carlos Detweiller Emperor of Ice-Cream

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    KMS is not permanent, but MTK allows you to set up automated ongoing renewal (AutoKMS). At the moment it is safe, we don't know for the future, though.
     
  6. 123qwerty

    123qwerty MDL Novice

    Jun 15, 2013
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    Alright, if in future bad things happen that it isnt safe, that means only that it becomes "not activated"? If that happens, I probably always can go back to 2008 R2 if that indeed happens in future.:D
     
  7. Carlos Detweiller

    Carlos Detweiller Emperor of Ice-Cream

    Dec 21, 2012
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    For the common pirate, becoming non-Genuine is the worst that can happen. Arr!

    Eventually an official OEM:SLP key will become known, then Loader will be updated for R2. OEM:SLP is permanent and safe.
     
  8. 123qwerty

    123qwerty MDL Novice

    Jun 15, 2013
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    Alright, thanks. So will upgrade my server tomorrow to 2012 R2 then and use that, and when Loader becomes updated for R2, will probably use that then. Thanks for fast help! :D
     
  9. lattensepp

    lattensepp MDL Novice

    Jan 23, 2010
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    Hi!

    "Trials are good but you need to convert them to non-eval via DISM first."

    Will not work if you have this Server as Domain Controller ;-)

    regards