Unable to activate windows server 2019 evaluation

Question

Hi. we are trying to activate Windows Server standard eval version by using product key they got. However, following error is seen. Can you please help here on why the error “87” is showing up? and the steps to overcome ![77085-image.png][1] [1]: /api/attachments/77085-image.png?platform=QnA

Answer 1

anonymous user
Hi,

If you install Evaluation edition of Windows Server it will expect a Retail key when doing the straight conversion. For those of us with Volume license keys the upgrade path involves first using DISM ONLINE Set edition using a KMS key, Then on reboot use slmgr /ipk using your Volume key and then finally run slmgr /ato.

You can get the KMS keys here:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/get-started/kmsclientkeys

For example

DISM /Online /Set-Edition:ServerStandard /ProductKey:N69G4-B89J2-4G8F4-WWYCC-J464C /AcceptEula

After reboot then

slmgr /ipk XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX (your OWN VLSC MAK key)

then activate

slmgr /ato

If that doesn't work, you have to reinstall 2019 with the NON EVAL ISO.

Hope above information can help you.

============================================

If the Answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and upvote it.
Note: Please follow the steps in our documentation to enable e-mail notifications if you want to receive the related email notification for this thread.

Answer 2

What channel is the product key? Should be retail in order to activate the evaluation.

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

Answer 3

Does server have an internet connection?

Answer 4

Yes, server do have internet connection

Answer 5

I'd get in touch with the seller about this. The burden is on them to provide access to licensed installation media for the products they sell.

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