How To Activate Windows Server 2022 Free May 2026

You must have a legitimate product key (MAK, KMS, or Retail).

Microsoft wants developers and IT pros to learn their software. They offer a fully featured, 180-day trial of Windows Server 2022 Standard or Datacenter.

You can legally rearm (reset) the evaluation period up to five times using slmgr.vbs. how to activate windows server 2022 free

Limitation: After the final 180 days (post-5 rearms), you must reinstall the OS or purchase a license. The trial cannot convert to a full license via key entry.

If you or your organization already owns Windows Server licenses with Software Assurance (SA), you may be eligible to activate Windows Server 2022 in the cloud (Azure) or on-premises at no additional cost. You must have a legitimate product key (MAK, KMS, or Retail)

Cost: $0. Valid for as long as you maintain student status.

If you later decide to purchase a license, you can convert your evaluation version to a fully activated Retail or Volume License edition without reinstalling. Limitation: After the final 180 days (post-5 rearms),

When the trial nears its end, extend it using Command Prompt (Admin) :

First extension (day 179):

slmgr /rearm

Reboot. This resets the counter to 180 days.

Repeat the slmgr /rearm command up to two more times (max 3 rearms total).