KMS Server and Active Directory Based License Activation

TonyJK 876 Reputation points
2023-01-19T00:32:38.43+00:00

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

Windows Server
Windows Server
A family of Microsoft server operating systems that support enterprise-level management, data storage, applications, and communications.
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  1. Thameur-BOURBITA 32,641 Reputation points
    2023-01-24T08:39:52.3066667+00:00

    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

    User's image

    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:

    Selecting Active Directory-Based Activation.

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

    User's image

    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

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  1. Limitless Technology 44,126 Reputation points
    2023-01-19T14:50:19.98+00:00

    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


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