In this blog post I show how to extend your trial period to three years. The evaluation version of Windows Server 2012 / 2016 is valid for 180 days and you can convert your trial version to retail.

To explore Windows Server 2016 download it here:

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/evaluate-windows-server-2016/

After installing, you can try it for 180 days. After 180 days you and your system will run into troubles for sure. But the good news is: You can extend the period.

First, take a look at your desktop. You should see the countdown in the corner down right.

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Or start PowerShell and run slmgr.

1 slmgr -dlv Pay attention to the Timebased activation expiration and the Remaining Windows rearm count. You can rearm the period 6 times. (180 days * 6 = 3 years).

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When the period comes to an end, run slmgr -rearm to extend it by another 180 days.

1 slmgr -rearm Unbenannt.PNG

Next restart your computer.

1 Restart-Computer Once restarted, open PowerShell and check your settings.

1 slmgr -dli Unbenannt.PNG

Important Note The evaluation version may not be use for commercial purposes. Have fun playing with the Windows Server 2016 Evaluation Version!

By the way: You can do the same with Windows 10. But the Windows 10 Evaluation Version can be used only for 180 days in total.