> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.edbb.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Manage a Windows Server evaluation

> Check Windows Server evaluation status and remaining rearms. Understand licensing responsibilities before extending a test installation or using it in production.

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Windows Server evaluation images are for evaluation, not a substitute for a production license. Check the terms and supported conversion path for your exact Windows Server release and edition before extending or activating it.

## Check the installed evaluation

Open PowerShell as Administrator:

```powershell theme={"system"}
slmgr /dlv
```

Review the edition, evaluation expiry and remaining rearm count. Do not assume every image has the same count or that every rearm grants the same extension.

## Rearm when permitted

If the installed evaluation and Microsoft's terms permit another rearm, save work, schedule a restart and run:

```powershell theme={"system"}
slmgr /rearm
Restart-Computer
```

After restarting, run `slmgr /dlv` again and confirm the resulting expiry. If no rearms remain or the command fails, check the release-specific Microsoft guidance rather than repeatedly reinstalling to bypass licensing.

For production, obtain a license valid for the edition and hosting arrangement and follow Microsoft's supported activation/conversion procedure. Do not assume an Azure-specific licensing benefit applies to an EDBB VPS. See [Microsoft Windows Server deployment guidance](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/get-started/upgrade-conversion-options).