If you are using the latest version of Windows Server, you may have noticed that it comes with a 180-day evaluation period. After this period, you will need to activate your server to continue using it. In this article, we will discuss how to activate Windows Server 2022 evaluation and extend its usage.
Understanding Windows Server 2022 Activation
Before we dive into the activation process, it is important to understand what it means to activate your Windows Server. Activation is a process that verifies that your copy of Windows is genuine and has not been used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. It also ensures that you are using the most up-to-date version of Windows Server.
Activating Windows Server 2022
To activate your Windows Server 2022 evaluation, you will need a product key. If you have purchased a product key, you can enter it by going to Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Change product key. If you do not have a product key, you can purchase one from the Microsoft Store or a licensed retailer.
If you do not have a product key and do not wish to purchase one, you can still activate your server using the command prompt. Follow these steps:
- Open the command prompt as an administrator.
- Type in the following command: slmgr /ipk
- Press Enter to execute the command.
- Once the product key is installed, type in the following command: slmgr /ato
- Press Enter to execute the command.
- Your Windows Server 2022 evaluation should now be activated.
Extending the Evaluation Period
If you need more time to evaluate Windows Server 2022, you can extend the evaluation period for up to three times. This will give you a total of 540 days to use the server before you need to activate it. To extend the evaluation period, follow these steps:
- Open the command prompt as an administrator.
- Type in the following command: slmgr /rearm
- Press Enter to execute the command.
- Restart your server.
You can repeat these steps two more times to extend the evaluation period for a total of 540 days.
Troubleshooting Activation Issues
If you encounter any issues during the activation process, there are a few things you can try to resolve them:
- Make sure you are connected to the internet.
- Check that your product key is valid and has not been used on more devices than allowed.
- Restart your server and try activating again.
- If you are using a virtual machine, make sure it is connected to the internet and has the correct date and time settings.
Conclusion
Activating your Windows Server 2022 evaluation is a simple process that can be done with a product key or through the command prompt. By following these steps, you can ensure that your server is genuine and up-to-date. If you encounter any issues, try troubleshooting or extending the evaluation period. With these tips, you can easily activate your Windows Server 2022 and continue using it for your business needs.
