Downgrade windows server 2025 to 2022

Question

I have purchased a windows Server 2025 license and would like to downgrade it to Server 2022.

Do let me know if its possible and the steps to follow to downgrade the license file.

Answer 1

Yes, downgrading a Windows Server 2025 license to Windows Server 2022 is possible, as Microsoft provides downgrade rights for customers with volume licensing or Software Assurance (SA). However, the method and eligibility depend on how you obtained the license. Microsoft's downgrade rights allow customers to use an earlier version of the Windows Server software (e.g., Windows Server 2022) while licensed for a newer version (e.g., Windows Server 2025).

1. Start by checking your license type

• Volume Licensing (VL) or Software Assurance (SA):
  • You are eligible for downgrade rights.
  • Can request installation media and keys via the Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC).
• OEM License (preinstalled by hardware vendor):
  • You must request downgrade media and keys from the OEM vendor.
  • Downgrade rights apply, but you may not get media/keys from Microsoft directly.
• Retail (FPP) License:
  • Downgrade rights are not officially included.
  • You can still install and activate an older version, but Microsoft does not guarantee keys/media for downgrades under FPP.

2. Downgrade process

A. Get the installation media and product key for Server 2022

• If you're a Volume License customer:
  1. Visit the Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC).
  2. Download the Windows Server 2022 ISO.
  3. Retrieve the product key for Windows Server 2022 Standard/Datacenter.
• If you're using OEM or Retail, contact your vendor or support for installation media and a valid downgrade key.

B. Install Windows Server 2022

• Perform a clean installation of Windows Server 2022 using the ISO.
• Enter the Windows Server 2022 product key during installation (not the 2025 key).

C. Peform activation

• Activation may not work automatically using the 2022 key from a 2025 license. In such cases:
  • Use phone activation:
    1. Run slui 4 from command prompt or Start.
    2. Follow instructions to complete activation by calling Microsoft.

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hth

Marcin