In this blog post I show how to extend your trial period to three years. The evaluation version of Windows Server 2012 / 2016 is valid for 180 days and you can convert your trial version to retail.
To explore Windows Server 2016 download it here:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/evaluate-windows-server-2016/
After installing, you can try it for 180 days. After 180 days you and your system will run into troubles for sure. But the good news is: You can extend the period.
Extending the Trial Period
First, take a look at your desktop. You should see the countdown in the corner down right.
Or start PowerShell and run slmgr.
slmgr -dlv
Pay attention to the Timebased activation expiration and the Remaining Windows rearm count. You can rearm the period 6 times. (180 days * 6 = 3 years).
When the period comes to an end, run slmgr -rearm to extend it by another 180 days.
slmgr -rearm
Next restart your computer.
Restart-Computer
Once restarted, open PowerShell and check your settings.
slmgr -dli
Important Note
The evaluation version may not be use for commercial purposes. Have fun playing with the Windows Server 2016 Evaluation Version!
By the way: You can do the same with Windows 10. But the Windows 10 Evaluation Version can be used only for 180 days in total.
Categories: Windows Server
Rearming worked! Thank you Patrick!!
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Welcome!
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Thanks a lot. After looking around to backup, not migrate data, there was a lack out there. This is very helpful. Took a break from MCSA training and the counter reset from 4 days to 180.
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Works like a charm! Fantastic! I ran to the problem of server keeps restarting every hour, and this method saved me until I get the license
Thank you
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You’re welcome. It’s my pleasure.
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Hi, why do you recomend not to use the evaluation version for commercial purposes? I work in IT for a small business, and i’m thinking on starting to build a small server, obviously I want to start using the trial because I know nothing about servers. Thanks
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Hi Marvin, it it not allowed to use the trial version for commercial use. Microsoft tolerated the use of trials for a short period of time in the past. It’s up to you to convert the trial version to a full version and pay for the OS.
Regards,
P
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Does the computer have to be connected to the internet? The command yielded a 10 day rearm without being connected to the internet.
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How did you solve your problem?
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Re arming only produced only an extension of 10days
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Hey there pewa, awesome article! Bookmarked for later. But what do you mean with:
“By the way: You can do the same with Windows 10. But the Windows 10 Evaluation Version can be used only for 180 days in total.”
Sooo, you can extend it? Or not?
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Thank you. The Windows 10 evaluation can be used only for a short period compared to Windows Server
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Very helpful tip!
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Hello,
may i ask you a question.
i try to install virtualizor/KVM and install windows server 2016 on my vm,
it shows 0 day,and i apply “slmgr -rearm”,it extend 180 days as your screen shows.
but when i download windows server essential 2016 and install it on my pc,
i use the key to install,
it shows “Activate Windows Go to Settings to activate Windows” now,
may i ask why there such a difference ?
is it possible i let it show like 180 days as your screen shows ?
because im new to test it.
thank you.
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Please do not post any activation numbers … Note the difference between Evaluation and Non-Evaluation. Activation period only comes up in eval mode
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