Can I supply my own Windows license for a dedicated machine?
Posted: Thu May 01, 2025 9:53 pm
Yes, for an unmanaged machine, you may provide a Windows Server Standard SPLA key for us to apply on your behalf. To do this:
1. Fill out the order form and choose "Windows (customer-supplied)" as your OS
2. In the field that pops up, select your Windows Server version and enter your SPLA license key
3. Submit the form and pay the usual amounts
4. When we set up the server and image the OS, we will apply your key
We only support SPLA keys at this time. Use of the SPLA is required for dedicated servers hosted by a services provider (as we are). You cannot use other volume licensing keys or regular (non-SPLA) Windows Server keys.
If you have an existing dedicated machine, you can also convert to using your own license. To do this, change the key through Windows by entering this into an escalated command prompt, replacing the Xs with your own key:
Check to make sure this succeeds, then contact us with the key information, and we can adjust the monthly cost of your machine.
This is a new policy. Previously, we were told that this was simply not allowed. But, recently, we asked again and escalated to Microsoft, and they responded back that we may allow customers to supply their own SPLA licenses for dedicated machines as long as we meet the definition of an "outsourcing company" under the customer's SPLA, and the customer follows the rules under their agreement.
Customers should review their own SPLA documentation (and if necessary, ask Microsoft or an attorney) to confirm that they are able to do this and to ensure that all requirements are being met.
1. Fill out the order form and choose "Windows (customer-supplied)" as your OS
2. In the field that pops up, select your Windows Server version and enter your SPLA license key
3. Submit the form and pay the usual amounts
4. When we set up the server and image the OS, we will apply your key
We only support SPLA keys at this time. Use of the SPLA is required for dedicated servers hosted by a services provider (as we are). You cannot use other volume licensing keys or regular (non-SPLA) Windows Server keys.
If you have an existing dedicated machine, you can also convert to using your own license. To do this, change the key through Windows by entering this into an escalated command prompt, replacing the Xs with your own key:
Code: Select all
cscript c:\windows\system32\slmgr.vbs /ipk XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXXThis is a new policy. Previously, we were told that this was simply not allowed. But, recently, we asked again and escalated to Microsoft, and they responded back that we may allow customers to supply their own SPLA licenses for dedicated machines as long as we meet the definition of an "outsourcing company" under the customer's SPLA, and the customer follows the rules under their agreement.
Customers should review their own SPLA documentation (and if necessary, ask Microsoft or an attorney) to confirm that they are able to do this and to ensure that all requirements are being met.