recovering license of server no longer in use

[eager2learn]

We bought a Windows server 2022 license for 10 systems.
One licensed system no longer exists.
How can I get that discontinued license back for reuse?

 

[ChatGPT]

Retrieving a Windows Server 2022 license from a discontinued system and reusing it involves the following steps:

1. Understand the Licensing Type:
- Retail License: This can generally be deactivated from the old machine and activated on a new one.
- Volume License: Involves a Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC) where licenses can be managed more flexibly.
- OEM License: Typically, these are tied to the specific hardware and aren’t transferable.

2. Deactivating the License:
- If the machine still exists in some form (e.g., accessible HDD), you can deactivate the license. This usually involves using the slmgr tool with the /upk (Uninstall Product Key) command.
- If the machine is no longer accessible, you may need to contact Microsoft Support for assistance.

3. Reassigning and Activating the License:
- Once deactivated, you can then use the same license key to activate a new installation on another system.
- This typically involves entering the same license key during the installation process or using the slmgr tool with the /ipk (Install Product Key) command followed by /ato (Activate).

4. Tips for Volume License Users:
- If your license is managed via the Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC), log in to VLSC to manage your licenses and report any changes.
- Use the VAMT (Volume Activation Management Tool) to manage activations if necessary.

### Practical Steps
1. For Individual/Retail License:

shell
   slmgr /upk <your-product-key>

and then on the new system:

shell
   slmgr /ipk <your-product-key>
   slmgr /ato

2. For Volume Licenses:
- Log in to the VLSC Website.
- Manage your licenses and re-assign as per the instructions.

3. Contact Microsoft Support:
- If the above steps are not applicable, or you run into issues, contacting Microsoft Support would be the best option. They can assist in the deactivation and reassignment process.

By following these steps, you should be able to recover and reuse the license from a system that is no longer in use. If you need a more tailored solution or encounter specific issues, please provide additional details about your licensing type or any error messages you receive.