Evaluation Period expired for Windows Server 2012 R2, How to extend it ?

After Window Server evaluation period has expired , you will found out unexpected behavior for your machine like unexpected Shutdown / Restart every one hour approximately !

Windows License is expired Build 9600

In this case, you only have two options:

• Purchasing a new Windows Key, activate windows through “Go to PC  Settings“.
• Extend Window Server evaluation period has expired .

Note :  The windows will notify you with the following message.

Your Windows license will expire soon.

Before 12 days of Windows Server 2012 license Expiration to activate Windows.

In this hint, I will elaborate How to Extend Windows Server Evaluation Period by following the bit mentioned steps below:

Steps:

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

• Reset the licensing status of machine by typing the following command
  • “slmgr.vbs /rearm“.

• Restart the server.
• The Windows Evaluation Period should now be extended to additional 180 days.
• After Server restart , wait a moment and you will find the license has been extended successfully.

Regarding Windows Server 2008

• Follow the above-mentioned steps with the following changes.
  • The command will be slmgr.vbs -rearm instead of slmgr.vbs /rearm.
  • The command will extend windows evaluation period to additional 60 days,  that can be used again for three times.

Enjoy 🙂