How do I activate Windows Server?

Microsoft Windows Server 2008 is the first major update in the Windows Server product line since Windows Server 2003. Like Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008 utilizes Microsoft’s Software Protection Platform activation technology. This means that Windows Server 2008 licenses must be activated against a KMS (Key Management Server) or with a MAK (Microsoft Activation Key).

In general, KMS will be the best method by which to activate Windows Server 2008 products on a server that is regularly connected to the campus network. Based upon feedback from the campus, in an effort to avoid any unnecessary duplication of effort and resources, a campus-wide KMS for Windows Server 2008Servers has been established. Every campus department has the option to use this KMS to activate Windows Server 2008 on all servers licensed to use WS 2008 products.servers. For more information on the campus-wide KMS, please go to www.softwarecentral.ucla.edu.