Activate Windows Server 2019 with KMS or the command line | TechTarget (2024)

Running the Software License Manager from the command line or using Key Management Services for automatic activation can sidestep one hurdle to get going with Windows Server 2019.

Activate Windows Server 2019 with KMS or the command line | TechTarget (1)

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Published: 08 Mar 2022

Microsoft added a wide range of cloud-based features to Windows Server 2019, but the first step to the cloud can trip up admins who encounter activation problems with the server OS.

Windows Server 2019 requires license activation after 180 days, otherwise the system will shut down. With multiple server workloads, it's not efficient to log in to each machine and manually activate them. There are also times when entering a valid key from the Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC) will not work. Errors and key rejection can happen, often for no apparent reason. To avoid frustration with the server GUI, it's beneficial to learn how to activate the Windows Server 2019 license through alternative methods such as the command line or Key Management Services (KMS).

Why use Windows Server 2019?

A switch to Windows Server 2022 might be a bit premature for many organizations who might prefer a more battle-tested server OS, while Windows Server 2016 might lack the more advanced functionality sought by some companies.

Windows Server 2019 offers important enhancements and a few years of updates that should placate even the wariest of admins who prefer stability over cutting-edge features. Some advantages in Windows Server 2019 over Windows Server 2016 include:

  • a unified management center for both networking and ecosystem monitoring;
  • scalable, expanded storage up to 64 TB, plus replication for disaster recovery;
  • better performance in Storage Space Direct -- up to two times faster according to Microsoft -- through improvements in mirror-accelerated parity; and
  • cloud-based file witness sharing.

Perhaps most fundamentally, Windows Server 2016 was not built for hybrid environments, making data management trickier for admins.

Windows Server 2019 also bakes in two modern technologies: AI and IoT support. Windows Server 2019 uses artificial intelligence for smarter predictions based on analytics. Microsoft added this feature to help admins lower operating costs. Devices on connected IoT platforms, such as servers and machines, can seamlessly share and back up data.

Microsoft updated Server 2019's security features, added better support for Linux VMs, tweaked subsystem containers for easier development and updated its Remote Desktop Services functionality. This newest version also integrates with Windows Admin Center.

But the key to unlocking all this functionality is to activate Windows Server 2019 to avoid disruptions after deployment.

Activation via the command line and Software License Manager

Tapping into the elevated command line is a reliable way to access the Software License Manager (SLMGR), also called the Windows Software Licensing Management Tool. Interacting directly with SLMGR handles activation and access to license information.

There are some potential issues that come with working via the command line. Accidental commands will typically generate an error message, but it's possible to harm the environment. Certain SLMGR parameters can also alter registry information. Double-check the command before execution to avoid problems.

This SLMGR uses parameters to deliver specific instructions. The parameters act like extensions and use the following format: slmgr /[parameter].

The SLMGR parameters fetch licensing information, alter licensing information and execute activation for Windows Server 2019.

Here are some common SLMGR parameters:

  • /dli: displays basic license and activation information;
  • /dlv: displays detailed license and activation information;
  • /xpr: displays the expiration date of an installed license;
  • /upk: uninstalls the existing license key;
  • /cpky: removes license key information from the registry;
  • /ipk [XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX]: changes the 25-digit license key or tries to activate the license if the provided key does not currently; and
  • /ato: forces immediate online activation, which is especially useful when KMS servers or Microsoft's VLSC online activation servers aren't reachable.

The primary extension used with activating Windows Server 2019 is /ipk, often used if there are issues using the VLSC.

Activate Windows Server 2019 with the command line

The following example command activates a license key. Navigate to the system32 folder from the command line, replace the X's with the 25-digit license key and press Enter to execute the command:

slmgr /ipk XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX

A pop-up dialog box will show if the operation failed or succeeded. Microsoft recommends a server restart after a successful activation attempt. After a reboot, Server Manager will show the activated server.

If a server is missing from Server Manager, there might be an activation error. Open the command line and enter the slmgr /ato command. A Windows Script Host pop-up will display an error message that explains why the Multiple Activation Key was invalid. Either use another activation key or contact Microsoft for support.

KMS is an alternative activation method

Another way to handle VLSC activation is to use KMS, a client-server model for volume activation.

KMS clients connect to a KMS server, also called the KMS host, on the network for activation. A KMS host can be a VM or physical machine. To activate a computer running Windows Server 2019, the KMS host must use one of the following OSes: Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows Server 2016 or Windows Server 2019.

How to find and use the KMS Host license key

To set up a KMS host requires obtaining the KMS Host key. Use the following steps to activate the KMS host:

  1. From the VLSC website, navigate to License > Relationship Summary > Click Current Active License ID > Product Keys and copy the Windows Srv 2019 DataCtr/Std KMSfrom the keys list.
  2. Open the command prompt, typeslmgr /ipk followed by the 25-digit KMS host product keyand pressEnter. Then, use slmgr /ato to activate the host key.

The server also needs the Volume Activation Services server role installed either from Server Manager or via this PowerShell command:

Install-WindowsFeature -Name VolumeActivation -IncludeManagementTools

The KMS host should then announce its presence on the network for KMS clients, such as a Windows Server 2019 machine. The KMS client should activate automatically, which remains valid for 180 days until it renews the activation via the KMS host.

Dig Deeper on Windows Server OS and management

Activate Windows Server 2019 with KMS or the command line | TechTarget (2024)

FAQs

How do I force KMS activation in Windows Server 2019? ›

Open the command prompt, type slmgr /ipk followed by the 25-digit KMS host product key and press Enter. Then, use slmgr /ato to activate the host key.

How to activate Windows 2019 using cmd? ›

On a client computer, open a Command Prompt window and run the command Slmgr.vbs /ato . The /ato command causes the operating system to attempt activation by using whichever key has been installed in the operating system. The response should show the license state and detailed Windows version information.

How to activate Windows KMS using CMD? ›

For Windows 7, 8, Office 2013 Installations
  1. Right click the Start Menu.
  2. Select Command Prompt (Admin)
  3. Run the command to configure the computer for the KMS activation server: cscript slmgr.vbs -skms fsu-kms-01.fsu.edu.
  4. Run the command to activate the computer with the KMS server: cscript slmgr.vbs -ato.
Feb 17, 2022

Can KMS activate Windows server? ›

A KMS host running on a Windows Server operating system can activate computers running both server and client operating systems, however a KMS host running on a Windows client operating system can only activate computers also running client operating systems.

How to change product key in Windows Server 2019 using CMD? ›

To remove any existing product key (in case you used a trial key), enter and run the command slmgr. vbs /upk . To enter your new product key, use the command: slmgr. vbs /ipk xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx where the x's are your actual product key.

Why KMS activator is not working? ›

If a KMS host fails, you must install a KMS host key on a new host and then activate the host. Make sure that the new KMS host has an SRV RR in the DNS database.

How to find Windows Server 2019 product key using cmd? ›

Run CMD
  1. Open the CMD and run it with administrator rights.
  2. Once the tab is opening, copy and paste the command "wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey".
Feb 22, 2023

How to find Windows activation using cmd? ›

Use one of the many ways to open Command Prompt or PowerShell on Windows. In the console, type slmgr /xpr and press Enter. In the dialog box, check Windows 11's activation status. If your machine is not activated, you should see the Windows is in notification mode message.

How to get Microsoft Office 2019 product key using cmd? ›

How to Find Your Microsoft Office Product Key
  1. Run “Command Prompt” as Administrator.
  2. Type the following: cscript “C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office16\OSPP.vbs” /dstatus and press “Enter.” ...
  3. You'll see the last five characters of your Office product key.
Apr 16, 2023

How to find KMS server cmd? ›

On the client machine, from an elevated command prompt, type SLMGR. vbs /dlv. This will give you verbose output of the Software Licensing service. Refer to the "KMS machine name from DNS:" field for the FQDN of the KMS host.

How to activate license key in cmd? ›

How To Activate Windows 10 Using Command Prompt?
  1. Use the command “ slmgr /ipk yourlicensekey” to install a license key. Replace “yourlicensekey” with any of the factory license keys below. ...
  2. Home: TX9XD-98N7V-6WMQ6-BX7FG-H8Q99. Home N: 3KHY7-WNT83-DGQKR-F7HPR-844BM.

How do I enable KMS? ›

Configure the KMS host computer
  1. Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Firewall (or Windows Defender Firewall).
  2. Click the Allow an app or feature through Windows Firewall link.
  3. Click the Change Settings button.
  4. Select the check box for Key Management Service and then choose OK.
Mar 1, 2023

How to activate Windows using cmd for free? ›

How to Activate Windows 10/11 with CMD
  1. You have to open the command prompt on your system first. Then, click and start and simply type "CMD". Now, run it as administrator.
  2. Type the following command. slmgr /ipk. slmgr /skms kms.xspace.in. Slmgr /ato. Now press enter. This command will activate your Windows 10/11.
Apr 13, 2023

What is the command for Windows license key? ›

Enter "cmd" in the search box on the taskbar and open Command Prompt. Enter the command wmic path SoftwareLicensingService get OA3xOriginalProductKey and press Enter. The text displayed in the following format: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX is the product key.

What ports are needed for KMS activation? ›

KMS TCP listening port – By default, the KMS host is listening on port 1688 (TCP). You can change the port if needed using this setting.

What is the product key for Windows Server 2019? ›

Windows Server 2019
Operating system editionKMS Client Product Key
Windows Server 2019 DatacenterWMDGN-G9PQG-XVVXX-R3X43-63DFG
Windows Server 2019 StandardN69G4-B89J2-4G8F4-WWYCC-J464C
Windows Server 2019 EssentialsWVDHN-86M7X-466P6-VHXV7-YY726
Apr 26, 2023

How to install product key using cmd? ›

Steps:
  1. Open the Run command using the Windows key and R keyboard shortcut.
  2. Now type changepk.exe and hit the OK option to open the Windows activation client.
  3. Now, enter the 25-digit product key for the Windows 10 edition you need and click Enter.
  4. Finally, click the Next button to complete the task.
Mar 22, 2023

Can you install Windows Server 2019 without product key? ›

You can install the OS, login, and start working without a product key. But you won't be able to activate the OS, locking you out of some features, like the ability to personalize your desktop.

Can a KMS server activate itself? ›

The KMS clients find the KMS host via a DNS SRV record (_vlmcs. _tcp) and then automatically attempt to discover and use this service to activate themselves. When in the 30 day Out of Box grace period, they will try to activate every 2 hours. Once activated, the KMS clients will attempt a renewal every 7days.

Is KMS activation good? ›

Genuine Windows activation methods, such as KMS activation for large-scale organizations and digital keys for individual users, are the recommended and safe approach to activating your Windows operating system.

Is KMS activator risky? ›

If you are using KMSPico Activator for activating your Windows or MS Office, then you could be risking yourself to a ransomware infection. Quick Heal Threat Research Labs has recently observed a new variant of ransomware called Domino that is using this activator as a carrier.

How do I know if Windows Server 2019 is activated? ›

How to Check If Windows Is Activated?
  1. On Windows 10 and Windows Server 2022/2019/2016, go to Settings -> Update & Security -> Activation (or run the ms-settings:activation URI command to access the ms-settings quickly)
  2. In Windows 11, open Settings -> System -> Activation.
Jun 27, 2022

How to check if Windows license is activated in cmd? ›

Answer
  1. Open an elevated command prompt: ...
  2. At the prompt, type: slmgr /dlv.
  3. The license information will be listed and the user can forward the output to us.
Aug 5, 2022

How do I check my Windows activation status? ›

To check activation status in Windows 10, select the Start button, and then select Settings > Update & Security and then select Activation . Your activation status will be listed next to Activation.

How do I permanently activate Office 2019? ›

For Microsoft 365 and Office 2021/2019/2016/2013, you can go to https://setup.office.com/, click the Sign in button to sign in with your Microsoft account. If you don't have one, you can click Create a new account button to create a Microsoft account. Enter your product key in the pop-up window.

How to activate Microsoft Office 2019 with product key for free? ›

Microsoft 365, Office 2021, Office 2019, Office 2016, and Office 2013 (PC and Mac)
  1. To redeem a new purchase.
  2. Step 1: Go to www.office.com/setup or Microsoft365.com/setup.
  3. Step 2: Sign in with your Microsoft account, or create one if you don't have one. ...
  4. Step 3: Enter your product key, without hyphens, if prompted.

How do I find my Office 2019 activation key? ›

Here's how to view your product key in the Microsoft Store: Go to www.microsoftstore.com. In the upper right-hand corner, select Sign in and enter the user ID and password you used to buy Office. After you sign in, select your name in the upper right-hand corner, and then select Order History.

What is the command to check KMS key? ›

To get the key ID and key ARN for a KMS key, use ListKeys or DescribeKey . To get the alias name and alias ARN, use ListAliases .

How do I check my KMS server license? ›

Run the following command line on the KMS server to retrieve all installed licences : cscript c:\windows\system32\slmgr. vbs /dli all >> c:\temp\KMS. log.

What is KMS server activation? ›

KMS uses a client-server model to active Windows clients and is used for volume activation on your local network. KMS clients connect to a KMS server, called the KMS host, for activation. The KMS clients that a KMS host can activate are dependent on the host key used to activate the KMS host.

How do I activate Windows license without product key? ›

Open the Settings app and head to Update & Security > Activation. You'll see a “Go to Store” button that will take you to the Windows Store if Windows isn't licensed. In the Store, you can purchase an official Windows license that will activate your PC.

How do I activate Windows licensing server? ›

To activate the license server through the Internet:
  1. Open the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager.
  2. Right-click the server you want to activate in the console tree and then click Activate Server. ...
  3. On the Connection Method page, in the Connection method list, select Web Browser, and then click next.

Is KMS CMD activation safe? ›

KMS is a legitimate way to activate Windows licenses in client computers, especially en masse (volume activation). There is even a Microsoft document on creating a KMS activation host. A KMS client connects to a KMS server (the activation host), which contains the host key the client uses for activation.

How do I use Microsoft activation script? ›

Download / How to use it?
  1. On Windows 8.1/10/11, right-click on the windows start menu and select PowerShell or Terminal (Not CMD).
  2. You will see the activation options, and follow onscreen instructions.
  3. That's all.

How do I know if Windows is activated by Kmspico? ›

Then we'll see if it activates:
  1. Go offline by opening Action center at the right end of Task Bar, then clicking on Airplane mode to turn off internet.
  2. Next type CMD in Start Search, right click to Run as Administrator, then right click to copy and paste this command in and press Enter: slmgr -upk.
Jan 22, 2019

How do I run Command Prompt as Administrator? ›

Windows 10: Opening the Command Prompt as Administrator
  1. Press the Windows Start button at the bottom left.
  2. Type in "Command Prompt".
  3. Right click on Command Prompt and click "Run as administrator".
  4. Click Yes if the Windows 10 User Account Control prompt is displayed.
  5. The Command Prompt should appear.
Apr 19, 2023

Is Windows license key free? ›

You can get a Windows 10 key from Microsoft at around $200 which is generally called a retail license. A retail license can be used to activate Windows on one system to another as you upgrade your hardware over time.

What is required for KMS server? ›

The KMS doesn't require a dedicated server. It can be cohosted with other services, such as AD DS domain controllers and read-only domain controllers. KMS hosts can run on physical computers or virtual machines that are running any supported Windows operating system.

How to configure KMS server 2019 step by step? ›

Configure the KMS host computer
  1. Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Firewall (or Windows Defender Firewall).
  2. Click the Allow an app or feature through Windows Firewall link.
  3. Click the Change Settings button.
  4. Select the check box for Key Management Service and then choose OK.
Mar 1, 2023

How to activate Windows server 2019 Standard Evaluation with product key? ›

How to Activate Windows Server 2019 Evaluation Edition with VLSC MAK key or Retail key #WINDOWSSERVER #MVPHOUR
  1. Login to Windows Server 2019.
  2. Open Settings and then select System.
  3. Select About and check Edition.
  4. If it shows Windows Server 2019 Standard or others non-evaluation edition, you can activate it without reboot.

What are the requirements for KMS activation? ›

The KMS doesn't require a dedicated server. It can be cohosted with other services, such as AD DS domain controllers and read-only domain controllers. KMS hosts can run on physical computers or virtual machines that are running any supported Windows operating system.

What are the hardware requirements for KMS? ›

A minimal virtual machine that is capable of running Windows Server OS will fulfill the requirements. That said, 2 x vCPU, 2 x GB of RAM, and 50GB of storage will be sufficient.

What is the command to get KMS server? ›

On the client machine, from an elevated command prompt, type SLMGR. vbs /dlv. This will give you verbose output of the Software Licensing service. Refer to the "KMS machine name from DNS:" field for the FQDN of the KMS host.

How to open server Manager in Windows Server 2019 using cmd? ›

Open the Windows command prompt on the Service Manager server. Click Start > All Programs > Accessories > Command Prompt.

How to check Microsoft Office 2019 product key using cmd? ›

Using the command line to check your license type

Open an elevated Command Prompt window. Type the following command to navigate to the Office folder. Type cscript ospp. vbs /dstatus , and then press Enter.

How to find ms Office 2019 product key using command prompt? ›

How to Find Your Microsoft Office Product Key
  1. Run “Command Prompt” as Administrator.
  2. Type the following: cscript “C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office16\OSPP.vbs” /dstatus and press “Enter.” ...
  3. You'll see the last five characters of your Office product key.
Apr 16, 2023

What is the standard core activation key for Windows Server 2019? ›

Windows Server 2019
Operating system editionKMS Client Product Key
Windows Server 2019 DatacenterWMDGN-G9PQG-XVVXX-R3X43-63DFG
Windows Server 2019 StandardN69G4-B89J2-4G8F4-WWYCC-J464C
Windows Server 2019 EssentialsWVDHN-86M7X-466P6-VHXV7-YY726
Apr 26, 2023

How long does a key management service KMS activation last? ›

According to the Microsoft article: Understanding KMS, in the KMS Activation Renewal section, it states that "KMS activations are valid for 180 days—the activation validity interval. To remain activated, KMS client computers must renew their activation by connecting to the KMS host at least once every 180 days.".

How does Microsoft KMS activation work? ›

KMS activation is a client-server model in which each client requests activation from a KMS host computer. The keys needed to activate Office are installed on the KMS host computer. The client uses DNS to locate a KMS host computer to request activation.

What is the grace period for Windows KMS activation? ›

During the 30-day out-of-the-box grace period, they will try to activate every two hours. After activating, the KMS clients try to renew their activation every seven days.

How do I know if KMS server is installed? ›

Finding the KMS Server on your network is fairly easy. On a Windows 2008 R2 Server or Windows 7 client, run “slmgr. vbs /dlv” on the server and it should return the name of the KMS Server. Additional options for the slmr.

How do I install a KMS key? ›

Select Install product key in the Selected Items menu in the right-side pane to display the Install Product Key dialog box. The Install Product Key dialog box displays the keys that are available to be installed. Select the Automatically select an AD or KMS client key option and then select Install Key.

What are Windows KMS keys? ›

A KMS Key is used to activate the KMS host computer with a Microsoft activation server and can activate up to six KMS hosts with 10 activations per host. Each KMS host can activate an unlimited number of computers.

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