Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition and KMS

[SuBT]

We have Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition ROK. Box contains Installation media and 25 digit Key.

We can install and activate Windows Server 2022 DC using 25 Digit key.

What is the procedure to install KMS Server. 

[MStringer]

The ROK kits use MAK keys  - they are licensed within the key itself.   To move to KMS, set the GPO policy, apply to the servers and point to your licensing server for the servers to pull a KMS key.   

I haven't had to do this in a while, so at worse case, you need to reauth WinServer with the KMS key manually, and it will see the KMS Settings within the settings from the GPO.

[SuBT]

Thx. As it is a Datacenter Edition I was expected to receive a KMS Host key within the box. GPO will force me to change my OU structure. So using the key as MAK may be the only solution or may someone with same problem may send a solution.

[Mr_Techie · Accepted solution]

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@SuBT wrote:

Thx. As it is a Datacenter Edition I was expected to receive a KMS Host key within the box. GPO will force me to change my OU structure. So using the key as MAK may be the only solution or may someone with same problem may send a solution.

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I have not tried anything this info I found for you. See if this givs you any kind of help.

If you have received a retail version of Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition with a 25-digit key and you are not provided with a KMS Host key, then you might need to use the Multiple Activation Key (MAK) for activation. MAK is an alternative to KMS and is designed for smaller deployments or those that don't meet the minimum threshold for KMS activation.

Here are the steps to activate Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition using a MAK key:

1. Use the installation media to install Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition on your server.

2. Open a Command Prompt with administrative privileges.>> Use the following command to activate Windows using the MAK key:

slmgr.vbs /ipk <Your-MAK-Key> ----Replace <Your-MAK-Key> with your actual MAK key.

3. After installing the MAK key, activate Windows online with the following command:

slmgr.vbs /ato

4. You can verify the activation status by running:

slmgr.vbs /dlv

5. Using MAK keys is a valid method for activation, especially when KMS is not feasible for your environment. Keep in mind that MAK keys have a limited number of activations, so you need to ensure that you have enough activations available based on your licensing agreement with Microsoft.

If you encounter any issues or have specific requirements, it's recommended to reach out to Microsoft support or your licensing provider for assistance and guidance. Additionally, check any documentation or materials provided with your Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition for specific instructions or keys that may have been included.

Hope this helps