Trend Micro strongly recommends customers to use static license keys, MAK for OVAs. Here are some reasons why it is recommended not to use KMS licensing for Virtual Analyzer images:
Activation Renewal
VA instances will need to connect KMS host to renew its activation frequently, but it could cause any issue with false positive alerts and increased consumption of KMS licenses.
KMS Activation Renewal
According to the Microsoft article: Understanding KMS, in the KMS Activation Renewal section, it states that "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.".
KMS Server cannot be contacted when you have set up a dedicated Sandbox/dirty network for the Sandbox environment unless the KMS server is located on the same network.
By default, KMS client computers attempt to renew their activation every seven days. If KMS activation fails , the client will retry every two hours. After a client computer’s activation is renewed, the activation validity interval begins again.
Minimum Requirement
To use KMS, it requires a minimum number of computers, both clients and servers. It’s not flexible.
According to the Microsoft article: Learn About Product Activation, in the Key Management Service section, it explains that "KMS requires a minimum number of computers (physical or virtual machines) in a network environment. The organization must have at least five computers to activate Windows Server 2008 R2 and at least 25 computers to activate clients that are running Windows 7. These minimums are referred to as activation thresholds..
Recommendations
- Install an Operating System. Do not install an Enterprise Edition of Windows 10 as it requires a License Server which is not supported by the Virtual Analyzer.
- You will need a MAK License Key (Multiple Activation Key) or a VDI License Key.
FAQs
Unlike a product key, which is entered during installation, the activation code is applied after installation. Activation codes are often linked to a specific hardware configuration or user account. They verify that you have a valid license to use the software.
Does KMS need to be activated? ›
To activate KMS on a client version of Windows, follow these steps:
- Open an elevated Command Prompt window.
- In the elevated Command Prompt window, run the following command to install the KMS key: cscript.exe slmgr.vbs /ipk <KMS_Key>
Either or both key types can be used by customers to activate systems in their organization: Key Management Service (KMS) allows organizations to activate systems within their own network. Multiple Activation Key (MAK) activates systems on a one-time basis, using Microsoft hosted activation services.
Is KMS activation illegal? ›
Activation servers (KMS) through an organization or educational institution is legal, and should be used for those intents and purposes. Hope this helps. Was this reply helpful?
What is the difference between digital license vs product key activation? ›
A digital license (called a digital entitlement in Windows 11) is a method of activation in Windows 11 that doesn't require you to enter a product key. A product key is a 25-character code used to activate Windows.
What is the use of Licence key? ›
As opposed to a license itself, which gives a user (or users) permission to legally use a piece of software, a license key is a code or token that allows the user to identify him/herself as a legal customer (aka a paying one).
Can you use a MAK key with a KMS server? ›
It won't matter whether the server was kms or mak as it will overwrite the mak with kms client key or overwrite the same kms client key with what's used. If you have servers set up for KMS, they will find the KMS server. If they have MAK keys, they won't look for the KMS server.
What is the difference between KMS key and secret key? ›
AWS KMS returns a plaintext data key and a copy of that data key encrypted under the KMS key. Secrets Manager uses the plaintext data key and the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm to encrypt the secret value outside of AWS KMS.
What is the difference between KMS key and key material? ›
A KMS key is a logical representation of an encryption key. The metadata for a KMS key includes the ID of key material used to encrypt and decrypt data. When you create a KMS key, by default, AWS KMS generates the key material for that KMS key.
Is KMS activation permanent? ›
KMS activations are valid for 180 days, a period known as the activation validity interval. KMS clients must renew their activation by connecting to the KMS host at least once every 180 days to stay activated.
KMS is a legitimate way to activate Windows licenses in client computers, especially en masse (volume activation). There is even a Microsoft document on creating a KMS activation host. A KMS client connects to a KMS server (the activation host), which contains the host key the client uses for activation.
Is KMS a hack? ›
KMS Activator is not a malware. But it depends from where you download it. Since it is widely used to (illegally) activate Windows and Microsoft Office products, crooks often embed malware inside. So be extra sure about the source.
How can I get an activation code? ›
An activation code can be included with the software or sent to the user's email address or device.
What is a license code? ›
License Code means a technical activation code that allows Customer to gain access to the Server Software and is delivered to Customer by M-Files. Sample 1Sample 2. License Code means code which enables the Software to operate without restrictions.
What is this activation key? ›
An 'Activation Key' is a code required to enable specific functionalities, such as DES encryption, in software or hardware systems. It is obtained from the product vendor, like Cisco, and is essential for activating certain features.
