Remember: Microsoft no longer releases free security updates. However, activation remains required to keep the server running without nag screens.
A massive pain point: You downloaded “Windows Server 2012 R2 Standard Evaluation (Build 9600)” from Microsoft. It works for 180 days. Now you want to keep it. Remember: Microsoft no longer releases free security updates
Before activating, run sfc /scannow and install the latest available update rollup for Build 9600. A healthy OS activates much more reliably. Remember: Microsoft no longer releases free security updates
This method is ideal if you have a single or MAK (Multiple Activation Key) product key. Remember: Microsoft no longer releases free security updates