How can I rearm Windows Server to extend its evaluation period?

How can I rearm Windows Server to extend its evaluation period?
I have been using an evaluation version of Windows Server to test some features and compatibility with our existing systems. The initial evaluation period is about to expire, and I need more time to fully evaluate the server’s capabilities. I heard that there is a process to ‘rearm’ Windows Server, which extends the trial period and allows me to continue using it without entering a product key immediately. I want to understand how this rearm process works, if there are any limitations or risks involved, and how many times I can rearm the server before I must purchase a license. This is crucial for our development phase, and I need a clear, detailed explanation to avoid disrupting our ongoing projects.
4 Answers

To rearm Windows Server, follow these steps using the slmgr.vbs
script:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator. You can find ‘cmd’ in the Start menu, right-click, and select ‘Run as administrator’.
- Type the command
slmgr.vbs /rearm
and press Enter. - A message should confirm the rearm was successful.
- Restart the server to enable the changes.
This script resets the licensing state, giving you additional time before needing a product key.

Here’s how you can rearm your Windows Server to extend all its features without activating with a product key:
- Ensure you have administrator privileges.
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type
slmgr.vbs /rearm
and press Enter. - Wait for a message confirming the action’s success.
- Restart the server for the rearm to take effect.
This method allows an additional 180 days of the trial period and can be done up to three times.

Rearming Windows Server effectively extends the evaluation period. Here’s what you need to do:
- Open Command Prompt with admin rights.
- Run the command
slmgr.vbs /rearm
. - A confirmation message will appear.
- Restart your server to apply the changes.
You can rearm Windows Server up to three times before you must purchase a license to continue using it.

For an extended evaluation period on Windows Server, follow these steps:
- Access Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
- Enter the command
slmgr.vbs /rearm
and execute it. - A notification will indicate successful rearm.
- Reboot your server to apply the extension.
Remember, the rearm process can be repeated up to three times, giving you ample time to fully test all server functionalities.