2012 R2 evaluation download

[Alis_Klar]

Microsft only seem to offer a download of the DataCenter version of Win Srv 2012 R2? Can the DataCenter Edition trial be converted to Standard Edition by activating with a Standard edition MAK key?

[localzuk]

I believe the installer is the same for everything now, you just end up choosing which version you want during installation, and add the key once you've got it installed and running.

 

The 2012 R2 disc I use works that way anyway!

[Alis_Klar]

Thanks for the reply but on the evaluation page it only mentions datacenter and from other documentation it sounds like you can only upgrade not downgrade editions.

 

 

Download Windows Server 2012 R2

[Alis_Klar]

worth a try I suppose

[computer_expert]

You could download it and remove the sources/ei.cfg file. This should then show what versions are on the ISO (IIRC from Win7/2008R2 upwards this should be all versions, apart from 7 Enterprise)

[Alis_Klar]

I really hope that is the case but look at these two pictures. IT looks like for 2012 you choose the edition but for 2012 R2 they have taken this choice away

 

Spot the difference

 

2012

 

2012 R2

[computer_expert]

Windows 2012 R2 Standard Evaluation Download? - Spiceworks

 

There's a single download for both versions. These are the options you'll get when at setup:

 

Windows Server 2012 R2 Standard (Server Core Installation)

Windows Server 2012 R2 Standard (Server with a GUI)

Windows Server 2012 R2 DataCenter (Server Core Installation)

•Windows Server 2012 R2 Datacenter (Server with a GUI)

 

[Alis_Klar]

Thanks, Microsoft being clear as mud again! BTW have you tried the free hyper-v or the gui-less essentials edition? I just want this server to host VM's but a bit wary of the lack of GUI. Could I for example access the HP array configuration utility GUI remotely from a workstation or would I have to use the off-line boot disc.

 

Drivers, Software and Firmware - HP Support Center

[computer_expert]

Thanks, Microsoft being clear as mud again! BTW have you tried the free hyper-v or the gui-less essentials edition? I just want this server to host VM's but a bit wary of the lack of GUI. Could I for example access the HP array configuration utility GUI remotely from a workstation or would I have to use the off-line boot disc.

 

Drivers, Software and Firmware - HP Support Center

 

There seems to be a few posts on the HP forums about server core and the array config utility:

Array Configuration Utility on Hyper-V Server R2 - HP Enterprise Business Community

ACU array configuration utility on server core - HP Enterprise Business Community

 

(Remember to open the ports in the windows firewall too!)