Hey everyone, I was asked by a friend to help fix their server after it completely crashed. So, I put together a new server and decided to go with Windows Server 2025 Standard. I installed it using an Evaluation license, thinking it would be a quick fix before worrying about the full licenses later. After salvaging all the old data and getting everything running smoothly, I now want to activate the server properly. However, I just found out that you can't upgrade from an Evaluation license if Active Directory is running, which has me really worried. Is this true? Am I going to have to start everything over with a different image?
3 Answers
You're not alone – many of us have learned the hard way that using eval licenses can lead to trouble. It's usually best to go with the full version ISO from the start. You'll get activation prompts if you need to, but it shouldn't disrupt operations like an eval version can.
If you're looking to upgrade, use these DISM commands in an elevated command prompt:
1. DISM /online /Get-TargetEditions
2. DISM /online /Set-Edition:ServerStandard /ProductKey:XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX /AcceptEula
This will help you find out the versions you can upgrade to. Remember, if your system isn't online, you can activate using 'SLUI 4' in the Run dialog.
Check out this guide for step-by-step help with converting your eval license: https://chrisleverseo.com/forum/t/how-to-convert-windows-server-2025-evaluation-to-full-version-standard-datacenter.126/
Thanks for the tip! Quick question: what does Get-TargetEdition show if an upgrade is possible? Mine is only listing ServerStandardEval.