Bridging New Tech and Current Needs
The arrival of Microsoft Windows Server 2025 introduces major advancements in security, hybrid cloud integration, and performance, especially for AI and machine learning workloads. HPE ProLiant servers are designed to maximize these benefits with features like rebootless hotpatching, enhanced Active Directory security, stronger encryption, and seamless Azure Arc integration, helping businesses modernize while minimizing disruption.
Yet, not all workloads are ready for the latest OS. Many organizations depend on legacy applications or hardware that may not support the newest version. HPE OEM licenses address this with Windows Server Downgrade Rights, allowing customers to deploy an earlier, supported version of Windows Server on new HPE ProLiant hardware while maintaining operational continuity.
Eligible Downgrade Paths from Windows Server 2025
Microsoft typically follows an "N-1 / N-2" principle, allowing downgrades up to the two preceding major versions of the same edition. For HPE OEM Windows Server 2025 licenses:
WS 2025 Datacenter: Can downgrade to WS 2022 Datacenter (N-1) or WS 2019 Datacenter (N-2).
WS 2025 Standard: Can downgrade to WS 2022 Standard (N-1) or WS 2019 Standard (N-2).
How to Exercise Downgrade Rights with HPE
HPE provides two convenient methods for customers to obtain the necessary downgrade kit, which includes DVD installation media or digital media and a unique product activation key for the specific downgraded Windows Server version and edition:
- With Server Purchase: This is often the simplest approach. When ordering a new HPE ProLiant server along with its corresponding HPE OEM Windows Server 2025 license, you can simultaneously request the specific downgrade kit you require (e.g., a Windows Server 2022 Standard kit). In many cases, particularly for common downgrade paths, the kit can be supplied directly from the factory along with the server hardware, ensuring everything needed is available upon delivery.
- After Server Purchase: If the need to downgrade arises after the initial server and license purchase, or if the kit wasn't requested at the time of order, you can still obtain it through the dedicated HPE Downgrade Fulfillment Portal. Then you'll need to submit proof of purchase, as instructed by the automated email, to wsdowngrade@hpe.com. A common issue users might encounter in the portal is that the desired Windows Server version may not appear selectable; this can sometimes occur if multiple language code keys exist for the same language. If you face this, try selecting a different language code key that still corresponds to your required language.
You can find an infographic of these steps here: Infographic - Downgrades for Microsoft Windows Server
Important Considerations
- License Terms: The original license terms (e.g., Windows Server 2025) and associated Client Access Licenses (CALs) still govern the use of the downgraded OS (e.g., Windows Server 2022), including CALs and core counts.
- One OS Instance: You can only run either the licensed version or the downgraded version at one time per license.
- Hardware Compatibility: For full support, the HPE server hardware must meet Microsoft's minimum hardware and processor requirements for BOTH the originally licensed OS (e.g., WS 2025) AND the target downgraded OS (e.g., WS 2022 or 2019). Verify this using Microsoft documentation and HPE's certification matrix.
- HPE Support: HPE provides 90-day support for certified downgraded OS installations, provided the hardware meets the dual compatibility requirement and the OS is within its Microsoft support lifecycle.
- Record Keeping: Keep the original Certificate of Authenticity (COA), downgrade kit media/key, and proof of purchase documentation.
Flexibility with Compliance
HPE OEM Windows Server licenses with built-in Downgrade Rights offer essential flexibility for businesses managing technology transitions. They enable organizations to adopt the latest HPE ProLiant server hardware while aligning OS deployment with application readiness, internal standards, and migration timelines. To make the most of this option, businesses should consult official resources, review license terms, verify compatibility using Microsoft documentation and the HPE server certification matrix, and engage their HPE representative or authorized partner for guidance.
For more details:
- Read the HPE Microsoft OEM licensing FAQ.
- Follow the HPE Windows Server Downgrade Infographic.
- Visit the HPE Windows Server OEM products downgrade kits and replacement recovery media requests portal
Julian Rathfelder, Business Development Manager - HPE Microsoft Solutions (Central Europe)
Julian Rathfelder is the Business Development Manager for Microsoft in Central Europe at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, specializing in HPE ROK and Azure Local solutions to support digital transformation.
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