Installation (Smart Setup) Guide, Windows Server 2008 SP2, v6.5

Activate the OS
You must manually activate Windows Server 2008 SP2 (with Microsoft) no more than 3 days
after the system boots for the first time following installation. HP recommends that you manually
activate the OS immediately after the first boot. Otherwise the Activation wizard will run at the
next reboot and force the activation process.
You can activate your OS by phone, or manually, in which case an internet connection is required.
If you attempt to activate without an internet connection, the process aborts. Once you establish
an internet connection after a failed attempt, the activation process differs from the one described
below. In this situation you should follow the instructions given on-screen.
To activate the OS, follow these steps:
1. Click Start.
2. Right-click Computer and select Properties. The System window displays.
3. Scroll down to the Windows Activation section at the bottom of the window and click x
day(s) until automatic activation. Activate Windows now.
Figure 2-26 System Window #1
NOTE: If you click Change product key instead of Activate Windows now you are
prompted to enter the key and then the Activation wizard runs. This method can be used
for entering a test product key when the computer is disconnected from the internet.
4. The Windows Activation screen displays. Click Type a different product key.
Activate the OS 49