Trial -> Registered version of Win2003

[Damodred]

hi

I have encountered a small problem. On a server I run I have used the trial version of Windows Server Enterprise 2003. I really like it so I bought it. I do have a few weeks left before the time runs out but Id like to change it from Trial to full version. How do I do it?

I followed the link from microsoft regarding changing serial, which you can follow here http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q328874

But when I shall do that, it says "Windows iis already activated". Well it is, but I got like 26 days left. I want to keep it active. Is the only option to sit a year in the telephone to wait for MS support or a format?


I dont want to do any of them :D

I've tried google for the solution but when english isnt my native language some of the solutions found are either extremely difficult to understand or just strange :)

regards
Damo

[Swordfish]

Read the faq.

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/evaluation/trial/evalfaq.mspx


Q. I recently installed the 180-day trial version of Windows Server 2003. When I buy the full version of this software, will I have to install it over the evaluation copy?

A. Yes. After the 180-day trial period, you will have to install the full version (that is, non-evaluation) product.

Q. Can I use the Product Key that is included when I buy a copy of the full version (that is, non-evaluation) product to remove the 180-day limit instead of installing the full version product?

A. No. You must install the full version of the product. The new Product Key will not override the 180-day limit on the evaluation software. When you install the full version product, select the Upgrade option when prompted during setup. This will keep the settings you established when you installed the evaluation version of the software.

[Damodred]

Haha, proof that you dont get any smarter at 5am.... Thanks alot :)


While I am at it, I must ask another thing. I think I must just as well do a full format of my C:


But I have a software raid5 running. I did a test and installed Windows 2003 on a different partition and I could re-activate my raid, but can I do that if I format C:?

I have a full backup but just adding a 1tb large file on a raid5 kinda puts me off. So I really need to know if I can import it or just reactivate it again after a full format of my C:

It shouldnt be any difference, but I feel that it might actually be one or a few. Something with the register or something. Any help appreciated!


regards
Damo

[Sterling_Aug]

There is a way to deactivate the activation and re-register any Microsoft software.

Email me for details, we used to have it posted on here about a year ago.

[crossedup]

http://labmice.techtarget.com/windowsxp/articles/changeID.htm

That gives instructions for windows XP but it should be much the same process. Ive done it that way many times and it works great.

[Damodred]

Thanks crossedup. Its the same thing as the one provided by microsoft I think, looks to be the exact thing actually. Its not sadly not what Im looking for at the moment.

Sterling_Aug:

Writing mail right now :)

regards
Damo

*edit*

What crossedup wrote works very well indeed. Just not for the trial :(

[Sterling_Aug]

I was going to suggest the same process.

[Damodred]

:)
oh well, I will just have to do another late night then. No worries, thanks to everyone for trying!

[crossedup]

Sorry no help. I am glad to learn that though as I have the same trial version of server 2003 as you do. Now I will know for future reference.

Saves me the licensing fee to find out. :D

:t

[r8500]

Would a repair install allow you to put the full version in place of the trial?

[Damodred]

r8500: Doubt it, I just did a normal upgrade and it worked out :)