KMS Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What versions of Windows does the KMS support?
A: Windows Vista Business and Enterprise. Windows Server 2008 Web,
Standard, and Enterprise.
Q: Why isn't Windows Server 2008 Datacenter supported?
A: Until there is reasonable demand, the
Penn State ComputerStore
will be distributing MAK keys for Datacenter licenses.
Q: How long do I have until I have to activate against the KMS?
A: Windows Vista has a 30 day initial grace period. Windows Server 2008
has a 60 day initial grace period.
Q: How often will the machine communicate with the KMS?
A: The product will attempt to contact the KMS to renew it's activation
period every 7 days. After 7 days the machine will attempt to contact
the KMS every 2 hours until it does so. The product needs to
communicate with the KMS every 180 days.
Q: What happens on the day 181?
A: Microsoft Vista will change from being licensed to being in a 30 day
grace period. After the 30 day period, the product will change itself to
reduced functionality mode. Microsoft Server 2008 will change
Q: Can I use a KMS if I'm behind a firewall that uses NAT?
A: Yes. Communication with the KMS is originated from the client
machine.
Q: Can I connect to the KMS if I'm off campus and use the
Penn State VPN?
A: Yes. Microsoft has also indicated that Microsoft Vista will attempt
to connect to it's associated KMS 5 minutes after a VPN has been
established if it has past the 7 day period, though this has not been
tested yet.
Q: I run a departmental firewall and need to know what port to allow.
A: KMS communication occurs on port 1688 using a TCP connection to
mskms.psu.edu.
Every effort will be made to not change the IP address of the KMS, however
if it needs to be changed the NWofP and PSUDB email list will be
notified prior to the change.