Forum Discussion

Copper Contributor

Feb 14, 2022

Solved

KMS host key status

I have setup a 2019 Server for Active Directory Based Activation (KMS), and added the host key (CSVLK) from the VLSC. When I run slmgr /xpr, it says "Volume activation will expire" in 180 days. Shoul...

Windows Server

Dave Patrick
Feb 15, 2022
Normal and expected behavior when you use KMS

KMS activations are valid for 180 days (the activation validity interval). To remain activated, KMS client computers must renew their activation by connecting to the KMS host at least once every 180 days. By default, KMS client computers attempt to renew their activation every 7 days. If KMS activation fails, the client computer retries every two hours. After a client computer’s activation is renewed, the activation validity interval begins again.

Dave Patrick

MVP

Feb 15, 2022

No, that's normal expected behavior.

KMS activations are valid for 180 days (the activation validity interval). To remain activated, KMS client computers must renew their activation by connecting to the KMS host at least once every 180 days.

Activate clients running Windows 10 (Windows 10) - Windows Deployment | Microsoft Docs

Nate U

Copper Contributor

Feb 15, 2022

Right, for those activating.

How do I tell if the server's host key is activated so it can continue activating clients?

Dave Patrick
MVP
Feb 15, 2022
Use the tool here.

Download Volume Activation Management Tool (VAMT) 2.0 from Official Microsoft Download Center
- Nate U
  Copper Contributor
  Feb 15, 2022
  I have it installed, but I guess I'm trying to make sure the KMS host key is happy.
  - Dave Patrick
    MVP
    Feb 15, 2022
    Just checking if there's any progress or updates?
    
    (please don't forget to mark helpful replies)