2003 Server License -> 2000 Server License

The_KiD · 1 Aug 2007 at 15:49

I am wanting to install Windows 2000 server on a new server we have that came with Server 2003 installed.

I have been told there is a number I can ring at MS to get a license key that will allow me to install Server 2000 on the server as I already have the media key.

Does anyone know what number I am meant to call?

stoofa · 1 Aug 2007 at 17:23

According to this link:

http://www.microsoft.com/uk/windowsserversystem/windowsserver2003/how-to-buy/faq-licensing.mspx

Q. I understand that I get downgrade rights, but where do I go to get the older version media and product key?

A. You can order the media through your normal fulfilment channel. Product key information comes with the media.

So if you already have the media and product key for Server 2000 - just install it.

madman045 · 1 Aug 2007 at 17:36

For downgrades rights, what you normally do is contact the company (Dell Etc) who supplied the server with the OS and they send you the media/licensing

Had to do this recently for a client, server came with Exchange 2007 and we downgraded them to Exchange 2003, Our account manager at Dell did all the work and the correct licensing was set up.

Burnsy2023 · 1 Aug 2007 at 17:48

Damn I'm too late

Downgrade rights are very useful. If you already have media and a key, use it. If you don't, contact the server OEM.

Burnsy

The_KiD · 2 Aug 2007 at 13:24

SO with it being a Dell server, but bought througha reseller then I contact DELL for the downgrade license?

Burnsy2023 · 2 Aug 2007 at 13:27

Yes.

Burnsy

The_KiD · 2 Aug 2007 at 13:28

sidethink · 2 Aug 2007 at 13:59

Without being too nosey, why do you need to downgrade?

Win2k3 will cohabit quite nicely in a Win2k based network.

The_KiD · 2 Aug 2007 at 14:46

It for a citrix farm and I would much prefer to keep the servers all running on the same platform, makes it easier for patching and management.

We are looking to get rid of Citrix in next 6 months so upgrading the other servers in the farm is pointless at this stage.