Part 1: Downloading the Evaluation Version

  1. Visit the official Microsoft Evaluation Center: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/evaluate-windows-server-2016
  2. Click on “Download the ISO” or a similar option.
  3. You may need to fill out a form with some basic information.
  4. Choose your preferred language and select either the 64-bit or 32-bit version (64-bit is recommended for most modern systems).
  5. Download the ISO file.

Part 2: Installing the Evaluation Version

  1. Create a bootable USB drive or burn the ISO to a DVD.
  2. Boot your server from this media.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows Server 2016 Evaluation.
  4. When asked for a product key, select the option to install without a product key.

Part 3: Upgrading to Full Version

To upgrade to a full version, you need a valid license key from Softwarelicense4u.com .

  1. Once you have a valid license key, open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Use the following DISM command to upgrade and activate your server:
    dism /online /set-edition:<edition> /productkey:XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX /accepteula

    Replace <edition> with the appropriate edition name (e.g., ServerStandard, ServerDatacenter) and replace the X’s with your actual product key.

  3. Wait for the process to complete. Your server may restart several times.
  4. After the upgrade is complete, verify your activation status by going to Settings > System > About.