Windows Server 2016 activation issues often arise after reinstalling using the Evaluation download. When you reinstall Windows Server 2016 Standard using the Evaluation download, your original OEM key might not work, throwing an “incorrect key” error, because it’s for the Standard edition, not the Evaluation version. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Problem Description
You recently reinstalled your OEM Server 2016 Standard (16 core) using the Evaluation download. However, upon trying to activate it with your original key, you encountered error 87, indicating an incorrect key error.
Solution
The key to success lies in using DISM to change the edition before applying your valid activation key. Here’s how:
- Use the Dism /Online /Get-TargetEditions command to verify which editions your installation supports.
- Execute Dism /Online /Set-Edition:<TargetEdition> /ProductKey:<ValidKey> to convert the Evaluation Edition to Server 2016 Standard.
- Replace <TargetEdition> with the correct edition identifier (e.g., Standard) and <ValidKey> with the GVLK: WC2BQ-8NRM3-FDDYY-2BFGV-KHKQY.
- Applying the GVLK Key: Ensure you apply the correct GVLK (Generic Volume License Key) for Server 2016 Standard, not the OEM key, during this process.
- Verification and Activation: After conversion, check the activation status using the slmgr /dlv command to confirm successful activation.
Remember, the Evaluation Edition cannot be directly activated. By following these steps, you’ll be back up and running with a properly activated Windows Server 2016 Standard in no time!