Solved: Dealing with Windows 2019 Standard Evaluation License Expiration Issue

Troubleshooting Question

We’re encountering a problem with our Windows 2019 Standard Evaluation server. It keeps shutting down due to a license expiration issue.

Initially, we tried entering the license key we received after purchasing all the necessary licenses, but we received an error message that reads:

“The product key you entered didn’t work. Check the product key and try again, or enter a different one (Error code: 0xc004f050).”

In an attempt to resolve this, we went ahead and completed all available Windows updates, but the problem persists.

On our server’s wallpaper, we see the following message:

“Windows Server 2019 Standard Evaluation
Windows License is Expired
Build 17763.r5_release.180914-1434.”

We managed to resolve a similar issue in the past by contacting Microsoft Licensing, and they provided a solution when speaking with humans. However, our recent experience with their automated system was frustrating. After 30 minutes of providing and confirming numbers, the system abruptly declared our installation as “invalid” and disconnected the call without offering any further options. Dealing with Microsoft Licensing has always been challenging, but this recent encounter took it to a whole new level.

We’re now seeking guidance on how to resolve this license expiration problem and get our Windows 2019 Standard Evaluation server up and running smoothly again. Any assistance or insights would be greatly appreciated.

Solution: Resolving Windows Server Evaluation License Issue

To address the license issue you’re facing with your Windows Server 2019 Standard Evaluation, here’s a step-by-step solution:

Step 1: Minimum License Requirement: It’s important to note that the minimum requirement for a valid license is 16 cores. This means you need a license for at least 16 cores to properly activate your server.

Step 2: Core Packs for Licensing: If your server has more cores, like 20, you can use core packs to license it correctly without having to buy 32 cores. For instance, you could purchase a 16-core pack and two 2-core packs, or you could acquire ten 2-core packs for your 20-core system. However, always remember that the minimum requirement is 16 cores.

Step 3: Evaluation Version: The issue might be arising because you are currently using the evaluation version of Server Standard. Evaluation versions are typically valid for 180 days and come with some limitations.

Step 4: Conversion to Full Version: You may be able to convert your evaluation version into a full version using a specific command. Here’s the command:

DISM /online /set-edition:ServerStandard /productkey:N69G4-B89J2-4G8F4-WWYCC-J464C /accepteula

This command changes your server edition to Server Standard and accepts the end-user license agreement. Note that the product key provided in the command is a generic volume license key for Windows Server 2019.

Step 5: Changing to Your Product Key: After the conversion, you should be able to change the product key to your valid license key. Ensure you have the appropriate license key for your server, and then use the Windows settings to update the product key.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the license issue and convert your Windows Server 2019 Standard Evaluation into a fully licensed and functional version. This ensures you’re compliant and can continue using your server without interruptions.