Can SBS 2003 be installed on a different server? 1

[traycee]

We have SBS 2003 running on our current server. We are ordering a new server that will be replacing our current server. Can SBS 2003 and the user licenses be installed on the new server? Do I need to purchase SBS 2003 and or new client licenses?

 

[58sniper]

You can't transfer an OEM version. If it's a retail version, then, yes, you can. You'll have to call for activation, but you can use it.

Either way, CALs can be transferred.

YMMV

Pat Richard, MCSE(2) MCSA:Messaging, CNA(2)

 

[traycee]

Thanks. I'll have to check if it's OEM or not. We're a non profit agency and the software we're using was donated by Microsoft for a small handling fee. At least the CALs will still be good.

 

[58sniper]

Then it's probably volume license, open license, or retail. You're probably fine. Again, you'll have to call when it comes time to activate.

Pat Richard, MCSE(2) MCSA:Messaging, CNA(2)

 

[twwabw]

FWIW, MS will usually let you transfer OEM licenses too- you just need to call for activation. Just did it last week on an SBS server another consultant had purchased for a new client. It was way undersized for the job, we ordered a new replacement server with no OS; and called MS to activate. Explained situation, and they gave me the activaation code. Had the exact same scenario 6 mos ago with another client who bought a "white box" server with oem SBS from a local vendor with their previous consultant. Server was a POS, so after we ordered a new PE2800 with no OS, installed SBS and called MS- again no problem. Just explained why, and they let it fly.

 

[58sniper]

I must be having bad luck then - I've called twice to move an OEM license to another box and was told "NO" - that the OEM software came with the box it was on, and couldn't be moved.

I'll be a little more perisistent next time!

Pat Richard, MCSE(2) MCSA:Messaging, CNA(2)

 

[twwabw]

huh.... strange. Like I said- no problems at all. Maybe I've just been lucky

 

[58sniper]

Yeah, that's interesting. Microsoft doesn't really support the OEM installations. The vendor does. When I called, they said - "No, that OEM version came with that hardware and is tied to that hardware, and can't be moved."

I got the client to pony up the cabbage for a new copy, but what a pain.

Pat Richard, MCSE(2) MCSA:Messaging, CNA(2)

 

[twwabw]

Yeah- that's what I figured we'd be doing here too- they bought a pathetically under equipped Dell Server w/SBS, in Jabuary. Had already been activated as well. But, they let me do it. I guess it's hit or miss. It's a shame too, 'cause there's no real price break buying SBS OEM- it's about the same.

 

[markdmac]

Its really an issue of whether or not the OEM version has been altered to prevent installation on different hardware. More often that not you won't be able to move an OEM version.


Tracee, MS would not provide you with an OEM version, so you should have not have any problems.

I hope you find this post helpful.

Regards,

Mark

 

[twwabw]

Never seen an OEM SBS install set that was vendor specific. All I've had (even Dell supplied) are actual MS CD, in MS packaging, that the only difference is labeled OEM. They're not mfg. prepared disks like Dell PC restore/OS disks. Just the same as you could order from a retailer.

 

[58sniper]

Actually, the CDs you get from Dell, while manufactured by MS, are OEM disks, as is the product key on the sticker on the Dell hardware. If you went and bought a retail version, that product key on your machine wouldn't work.

Pat Richard, MCSE(2) MCSA:Messaging, CNA(2)

 

[twwabw]

Actually, the CDs you get from Dell, while manufactured by MS, are OEM disks, as is the product key on the sticker on the Dell hardware. If you went and bought a retail version, that product key on your machine wouldn't work. "

Yes- this is of course true. What I meant was the CDs as supplied by Dell are not vendor specific install disks, such as a system restore disk. They are full-fledged MS OEM install disks.

 

[traycee]

After looking at the SBS 2003 Installation CDs they actually say "Not for retail or OEM Distribution. Not for resale." And I'm trying to think back to when I initially installed it and I don't remember there being any activation involved with it at all. I'm thinking we should be OK. Thanks for the help.
Tracee