Resolve DNS Activation Issues for Windows Server KMS Clients

Hey there, fellow Windows enthusiasts! If you’ve been navigating the murky waters of Windows Server activations lately, you might have stumbled upon some pesky DNS-related issues. Fear not! Let’s dive into the solutions that can get your activation back on track, especially if you’re dealing with KMS (Key Management Services) clients.

What's the Fuss About DNS and Activation?​

When activating Windows Server or a KMS client, the activation wizard relies heavily on DNS (Domain Name System) to locate the server running KMS software. If it can't find the DNS entry for the KMS host, you’ll be met with error messages that feel like a slap on the wrist. So, what can you do? Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and resolve these common issues.

1. Check the DNS Configuration​

First things first: let's ensure your DNS configuration is in tip-top shape. Here’s how to go about it:

• Open the Command Prompt (you may want to do this as an administrator).
• Run:
  

  bash ipconfig /all

• Look for the assigned IP address of your client device, along with the DNS and default gateway IPs.

Next, verify that the KMS hosts' SRV records are registered in DNS. To achieve this, execute the following command in the Command Prompt:

 nslookup -type=all _vlmcs._tcp > kms.txt

This generates a text file called kms.txt that holds all your DNS records related to KMS. Open this file and look for entries similar to:

 _vlmcs._tcp.contoso.com SRV service location: priority = 0 weight = 0 port = 1688 svr hostname = kms-server.domain.com

Make sure the information (like port, hostname, etc.) is accurate. If you see redundant KMS hostnames, it might be time to manually assign a KMS host as outlined later.

2. Switch to a Multiple Activation Key (MAK)​

If KMS activation is giving you trouble, it may be simpler to switch to a Multiple Activation Key (MAK). If you obtained your Windows image from MSDN or TechNet, you likely have a MAK at your disposal. To do this, in the Command Prompt, run the command:

 slmgr -ipk

Make sure to replace with the MAK you need (you can find it using: wmic path SoftwareLicensingService get OA3xOriginalProductKey).

When done correctly, you'll see a message saying, "Installed product key

successful," signaling a successful activation.

3. Install Volume Activation Service​

KMS activation requires a properly configured KMS host. If you don’t already have one, you must install and activate it using a KMS host key.
To enable Volume Activation Services:

• Open Server Manager.
• Click on Add roles and features.
• Keep selecting Next until you reach the Server Roles tab.
• Check the box for Volume Activation Services and click Next.

Be sure to follow prompts to install any required features. Once everything’s set up, don’t forget to publish your DNS settings.

4. Manually Assign a KMS Host​

Sometimes, automatic KMS discovery fails, and you need to manually set your KMS host. Here’s how:

1. To assign a KMS host using its FQDN, run:
   

   bash cscript \\windows\\system32\\slmgr.vbs -skms :

   • For IPv4 address:
     

     bash cscript \\windows\\system32\\slmgr.vbs -skms :

   • For IPv6 address:
     

     bash cscript \\windows\\system32\\slmgr.vbs -skms :

   • To use the NETBIOS name, run:
     

     bash cscript \\windows\\system32\\slmgr.vbs -skms :

And if you want to revert to automatic discovery, simply execute:

 cscript \\windows\\system32\\slmgr.vbs -ckms

5. Create or Modify the DisableDnsPublishing Value​

It's essential to ensure that your KMS host is properly registering itself in DNS.

• Open the Registry Editor.
• Navigate to:
  

   Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\SoftwareProtectionPlatform

• Look for the DisableDnsPublishing value. If it’s absent, create a new DWORD value.
• If it’s set to 1, change it to 0 (this ensures your KMS host updates DNS every 24 hours).

After making these changes, restart your server to see if your issues have cleared up.

In Conclusion​

Tackling DNS-related activation issues on Windows Server doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following these procedures, you can potentially resolve the most common problems that arise during activation. Whether you're a server admin or an enthusiastic home user, knowing how to troubleshoot these intricacies is key to keeping your systems running smoothly.
Keep these tips handy for when the need arises—and may your activations always be seamless! Happy troubleshooting!

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Source: The Windows Club Fix DNS-related activation issues on Windows Server