Migrating from Server 2003 to Server 2008R2
I think that the answer is no, but I'd like to hear what others have to say.
I have a physical server running Server 2003 that is a DC and looking at migrating to a new physical server that will be using Server 2008R2 and will be the DC. Some one mentioned that I should purchase an OEM version of Server 2008R2 and install it on the new server. Once it is installed, join it to the domain as a member server and migrate the licenses from 2003 to 2008R2, then promote the Server 2008R2 server to that of DC.
Here's the problems:
1. OEM installs have no support from Microsoft and the price difference is not that great overall. How it'll work with additional CALs, I'm not sure.
2. I know you can downgrade licenses from 2008 to 2003 but from what I understand, you can't upgrade licensing unless you have software assurance, and I don't.
3. I can't see any real method other than purchase the server 2008R2 OS (already have the server) and get software assurance to cover some of the cost of the CALs and for future upgrades.
If someone has any ideas, it would be great.
Thanks.
I have a physical server running Server 2003 that is a DC and looking at migrating to a new physical server that will be using Server 2008R2 and will be the DC. Some one mentioned that I should purchase an OEM version of Server 2008R2 and install it on the new server. Once it is installed, join it to the domain as a member server and migrate the licenses from 2003 to 2008R2, then promote the Server 2008R2 server to that of DC.
Here's the problems:
1. OEM installs have no support from Microsoft and the price difference is not that great overall. How it'll work with additional CALs, I'm not sure.
2. I know you can downgrade licenses from 2008 to 2003 but from what I understand, you can't upgrade licensing unless you have software assurance, and I don't.
3. I can't see any real method other than purchase the server 2008R2 OS (already have the server) and get software assurance to cover some of the cost of the CALs and for future upgrades.
If someone has any ideas, it would be great.
Thanks.