Windows Server 2022 Essentials

[ben2ku]

Hello all,

I'm new here, first post, my first experince with HP hardware, too. When researching availability of the replacement for Windows Server 2019 Essentials, there seemed to be indications that 2019 would be that last edition of Server Essentials. However, I discovered that Windows Server 2022 Essentials was available but only through OEM system builders. I found the software and license for sale on the CDW website, and purchased. it., The COA sticker came with a server installation DVD for HP Proliant Servers. So I bought a used Proliant server, a DL380 Gen9. Now, as I understand from Microsoft informaiton, there is not a separate iso for essentials, just install Standard and the activation key will make it the Essentials version,. Well, I installed, activated but the software version is Windows Server 2022 Standard, not Essentials. I'm concerned about this because the Essentials version has 25 user CALs baked in. So not only is the full version overkill for my needs, maybe I will need to purchase CALs as well. Anyone know the answer to this? Is there another step beyond activation needed to turn this install into Windows Server 2022 Essentials?

Thanks

[shiva_jr]

Hi @ben2ku ,
     Windows Server Essential edition is intended for small and mid range businesses. It supports maximum of 25 users or 50 devices.   If you are planning to scale up the server later, you can go with standard or Datacenter editions.  It works as a guest OS only. Please choose accordingly. 
     I referred this document.

Regards,
Shiva_JR

[support_s]

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[ben2ku]

@shiva_jr 

Hello and thanks for the reply,

I feel like you didn't read my question carefully as you appear to completely miss my point. I'm not asking what Server Essentials is, I know what it is. I bought a ROK version of Windows Server 2022 Essentials and acompanying activation key. Yet when I activateed, it comes up as Server Standard, not Essentials. I'm asking if I misunderstood how to activate or perhaps the activation key is incorrect. Thanks for trying, but the answer is not helpful. The link you provided doesn't work.

If anyone else would like to chime in, please ascertain what is being asked before attempting a relpy. Thanks

[ben2ku]

I'm waiting for more answers, what I have gotten so far is not helpful. Thanks

[Lukin78]

DId you find out more about this. Same thing happening to me.  Bought a HPE server and Windows Server 2022 Essentials ROK license. When I activate using the provided key, the server is activated as Windows Server 2022 Standard and not Essentials. 

[Mr_Techie]

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@Lukin78 wrote:

DId you find out more about this. Same thing happening to me.  Bought a HPE server and Windows Server 2022 Essentials ROK license. When I activate using the provided key, the server is activated as Windows Server 2022 Standard and not Essentials. 

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Good day!

- Run this command in PowerShell to check the actual edition that is installed:DISM /online /Get-CurrentEdition  [If it still says “Standard,” continue with the next steps.]

- try re-entering your Essentials product key directly using the 'slmgr' command. This can sometimes force the system to apply the correct license attributes. Open a command prompt as Administrator and run the following:slmgr /ipk <Your-Essentials-Key>

Then, force the system to reactivate with:[slmgr /ato]

Check again after this to see if the edition changes

- Since you purchased an HPE ROK license (Reseller Option Kit), there are sometimes additional steps or custom installation media that OEMs like HPE use.

Make sure

You’ve installed from the specific HPE-provided installation DVD or ISO. Using a generic Windows Server installation media may not apply the OEM-specific version correctly.

Look for any HPE-specific tools or documentation about activating ROK Essentials licenses. Some server vendors require proprietary steps to finalize the OEM activation.

- Visit the HPE Support Site as ROK licenses are tied to the OEM hardware, there could be additional settings or procedures in the BIOS, iLO, or other management tools that help bind the correct license version.

I hope this gives some insights

[ben2ku]

Hello,
Thanks for the response. I have followed your provided instructions, the "GetCurrentEdition" shows the installation is Standard Server. I tried the slmgr to enter the key, but it returns error 0xC00fF050,"the software licensing service reported that the product key is invalid". I have double and triple checked that the key is the one on the sticker sent with ROK DVD installation software. It worked when I installed, but of course it activated as Standard. I have not checked your other suggestions, I will do so. Thanks much for your help.
Darol Phillips (ben2ku)

[Mr_Techie]

@ben2ku

Darol, 

Sure, check and let me know if you need more help.