This error usually happens if your server is currently operating as an Active Directory Domain Controller (DC). Microsoft blocks edition upgrades on live DCs.

If you have landed on this page, you are likely frustrated. You searched for a Windows Server 2016 Standard ISO, downloaded a file from Microsoft’s Evaluation Center, installed it, and then saw the dreaded notification:

You must be running the version (Server Core evaluation generally cannot be converted directly to Standard Retail). Conversion Steps: Open PowerShell as an Administrator. Check your current edition: powershell DISM /online /Get-CurrentEdition Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard Verify which editions you can convert to: powershell DISM /online /Get-TargetEditions Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard

By ensuring you are using the correct , you avoid the headache of forced shutdowns and licensing errors down the road.

: Run DISM /online /Get-CurrentEdition .

To strip the evaluation restrictions and convert the OS to the full Windows Server 2016 Standard version, execute the following command. You supply a valid, non-evaluation product key (Retail or KMS Client Setup Key) at this stage: