If you’re using a trial version of Windows and want more time with it, you can make it last longer using the command prompt. This works whether you have a server or a client operating system, and the process is the same for both.
Keep in mind that the number of times you can extend the trial period depends on the particular operating system you’re using. In many cases, you can stretch the trial up to five times, giving you extra time to try the software before deciding on it.
Extend the Windows trial via the command line.
Microsoft allows people to use the Windows operating system for testing without a valid license for a specific period. But what many don’t know is that you can extend this testing period.
All you need is to open a command prompt with administrator rights. You can use either the command prompt or the Windows PowerShell console. The command you need to use to extend a Microsoft Windows trial license is: “slmgr -rearm.”
Once you enter this command, you must restart your computer to make the changes take effect. After the restart, the new testing period starts. You can find out more information, including the remaining time and the number of possible extensions for the testing phase, using the command “slmgr /dlv” at any time.
Trial periods and activation of a valid license
You can try out a Windows 11 installation for 90 days with a special method. You can extend this trial thrice, adding 30 days, giving you ample time to explore the operating system. The same goes for Windows 10, offering a similar trial period.
For Windows servers, the trial versions can be extended even more, allowing for 180 days of testing. This is especially helpful for evaluating server features and capabilities.
If you continue using a trial version as a full version, you can easily change it by entering a valid product key. I’ve created a detailed guide for Windows Server with step-by-step instructions on how to make this conversion. You can also switch to a different version of Windows Server, like upgrading from the standard to the data center edition.
These options let you try and assess various Windows operating systems and server editions to make well-informed decisions based on your specific needs.
