KMS Server and Active Directory Based License Activation

Question

Hi,

We have set up Active Directory Based License Activation for Windows Server 2019.

However, there is a request to activate a workgroup Windows Server 2019.

Can we use the same KMS Host Key (Used for ADBA) and create a KMS Server to meet the need ? Can we use the same Domain Controller for both KMS Host & ADBA ?

Thanks

Answer 1

Hi @TonyJK

Can we use the same KMS Host Key (Used for ADBA) and create a KMS Server to meet the need ?

Yes, you can reuse the same host key to install another KMS server:

Understanding KMS

Can we use the same Domain Controller for both KMS Host & ADBA ?

You have to select one of those method KMS or ADBA when you install volume activation tools:

I recommend you to disable DNS registration for new KMS server to avoid any conflict with ADBA for member servers:

Configure your workgroup server to detect KMS server through registry key :

“Hard code” your KMS server into the registry

Registry Settings for Volume Activation

Please don't forget to mark helpful answer as accepted

Answer 2

Hello

Thank you for your question and reaching out.

Only domain-joined machines can be activated using ADBA. In other words, the ADBA cannot be used to activate any workgroup or computer that is a member of a different AD forest. OR if you have workgroup computers outside the domain, you need to maintain a KMS host to maintain activation status.

Reference :

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/deployment/volume-activation/activate-using-active-directory-based-activation-client

---

--If the reply is helpful, please Upvote and Accept as answer--