Upgrade Windows Server 2012 R2 to 2019

Greg Solomon 1 Reputation point
2022-05-07T18:39:34.473+00:00

I have a retail 2012 R2 valid product key that I want to use for a home lab and want to upgrade to Server 2019.
I see the upgrade path/process is clearly documented but I can no longer find a software ISO for Server 2019.
It was really a disappointment when Microsoft tossed out the Technet subscription; I was a fan of being able to stand up product in my home lab environment.
Does anyone know how or where to download server 2019 software for this type of upgrade?

Windows Server 2019
Windows Server 2019
A Microsoft server operating system that supports enterprise-level management updated to data storage.
3,458 questions
Windows Server 2012
Windows Server 2012
A Microsoft server operating system that supports enterprise-level management, data storage, applications, and communications.
1,529 questions
0 comments No comments
{count} votes

1 answer

Sort by: Most helpful
  1. Dave Patrick 426.1K Reputation points MVP
    2022-05-07T18:49:33.907+00:00

    The evaluation center downloads are currently broken but that wouldn't work anyway. You cannot do an in-place upgrade using evaluation media. There are no public downloads of licensed server install media. Some options may be a VS subscription or a volume center logon. If you're purchasing Server 2019 then the vendor should provide access to licensed installation media.

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