Warning: Windows May Need Network Activation

The destination computer might need Windows Product Activation (WPA) after moving Active Directory, but the computer is not connected to the Internet. This may prevent you from logging on.

This warning message may appear if the destination computer was installed more than 30 days ago and the activation grace period has expired.

Note: This error message is only applicable to the retail (non-Volume License) edition of Windows Server 2003. It is not applicable to Windows Server 2008 or later.

How to Fix This Error

If you know that the destination computer is running a Volume License edition of Windows Server 2003, you can safely ignore the warning message and override it. No online activation is necessary for the Volume License edition of Windows Server 2003.

If you are testing AD using a test server you can re-install Windows to reset the grace period.

Otherwise you need to ensure that the destination computer can connect to the Internet so that you can activate Windows.

As a last resort follow the instructions on the screen to call the Microsoft Product Activation Support telephone number. See Activating Windows.

How to override this warning