Replacing Windows Server 2022 Standard with Datacenter Edition on VMware

This knowledge base guide will provide step-by-step instructions that will enable a user to migrate from using Windows Server 2022 Standard Edition on a VMware virtual machine to using Datacenter Edition. 

So, let’s get started!

Prerequisites

- A VMware environment (e.g., vSphere, ESXi)

- Access to Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition ISO

- Administrative access to the VMware environment and the Windows Server VM

- A valid license key for Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition

- A full backup of the existing Windows Server 2022 Standard VM

Steps

1. Prepare the Environment

1.1. Take a snapshot of the existing Windows Server 2022 Standard VM. 

1.2. Ensure you have a recent, verified backup of the VM. 

1.3. Download the Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition ISO.

2. Mount the Datacenter Edition ISO

2.1. In the VMware vSphere Client, right-click on the VM. 

2.2. Select "Edit Settings." 

2.3. In the CD/DVD drive section, select "Datastore ISO File." 

2.4. Browse and select the Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition ISO. 

2.5. Ensure the "Connected" and "Connect at power on" options are checked. 

2.6. Click "OK" to save the changes.

3. Start the Upgrade Process

3.1. Power on the VM if it's not already running. 

3.2. Connect to the VM using the VMware console or remote desktop. 

3.3. Once logged in, open File Explorer and navigate to the mounted ISO. 

3.4. Run "setup.exe" from the ISO.

4. Windows Setup

4.1. In the Windows Setup window, select your language preferences and click "Next." 

4.2. Click "Install now." 

4.3. When prompted for the product key, enter your Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition key. 

4.4. Accept the license terms and click "Next."

4.5. Choose the "Upgrade: Install Windows and keep files, settings, and applications" option. 

4.6. Windows will check for compatibility issues. Review any warnings or messages. 

4.7. If no blocking issues are found, click "Install" to begin the upgrade process.

5. Upgrade Process

5.1. The upgrade process will take some time. The VM will restart several times. 5.2. Do not interrupt the process or shut down the VM during this time.

6. Post-Upgrade Steps

6.1. Once the upgrade is complete, log in to the server. 

6.2. Open the System properties (Win + Pause/Break) and verify that Windows Server 2022 Datacenter is listed as the edition. 

6.3. Run Windows Update to ensure all the latest updates are installed. 

6.4. Verify that all previously installed roles and features are still present and functioning. 

6.5. Test all critical applications and services to ensure they're working correctly.

7. Cleanup

7.1. Once you've verified everything is working correctly, you can remove the mounted ISO:

- In vSphere Client, edit the VM settings.

- Set the CD/DVD drive to "Client Device" or remove it entirely. 7.2. Delete the snapshot taken before the upgrade if everything is working as expected.

8. Activation

8.1. If the system doesn't activate automatically–then, you can activate it manually:

- Open an elevated Command Prompt.

- Run: slmgr.vbs /ipk

- Then run: slmgr.vbs /ato

Troubleshooting

- If the improvement fails, you can use the photo to revert to the previous country.

- Ensure all drivers are compatible with Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Edition.

- If activation fails, verify that you're using a valid Datacenter Edition product key.

Conclusion

You have now successfully upgraded your Windows Server 2022 Standard Edition to Datacenter Edition on VMware. Remember to thoroughly test all applications and services to ensure they're functioning correctly with the new edition. If you encounter any issues, consult the Windows Server documentation or seek assistance from Microsoft Support.