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Windows Server 2019 downgrade to 2003

Matias Marchetti 21 Reputation points
2021-06-02T20:20:51.627+00:00

Hi everyone! I need to virtualize a physical server with Windows 2003 Server (OEM KEY) ... so I would need a new Windows 2003 Server Key OK? So, since that Windows 2003 is no longer available to buy, I read that I'm going have to buy a Windows 2019 Server license and later do a downgrade version to Windows 2003..It's true or it's another way to accomplish that?

Regards,

Matias

Windows for business | Windows Server | User experience | Other
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  1. Jenny Feng 14,246 Reputation points
    2021-06-03T02:13:06.357+00:00

    @Matias Marchetti
    Hi,
    OEM Microsoft Windows Server licenses DO grant downgrade rights. OEM versions released with, or after Windows Server 2003 R2 allow the end user to downgrade to an earlier version. To downgrade the customer must supply media to the OEM System Builder. The media must come from a legally licensed version of that
    product purchased via Microsoft retail, OEM/System Builder, or Volume License channels.

    It is feasible in theory, but you'd better call to confirm whether it still provides.
    https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/licensing/existing-customer/activation-centers

    Hope above information can help you.

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  1. Anonymous
    2021-06-02T20:30:42.367+00:00

    You'll need to contact the activation center to obtail the downgrade key and I suspect since 2003 is no longer supported they won't have one to give. So I'd recommend calling first to ask.
    https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/licensing/existing-customer/activation-centers

    May have better luck via ebay or some other third party channel.

    --please don't forget to upvote and Accept as answer if the reply is helpful--

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  2. Anonymous
    2021-06-03T02:14:04.283+00:00

    Just checking if there's any progress or updates?

    --please don't forget to upvote and Accept as answer if the reply is helpful--

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