[easygenes]

Yeah, if cost is a matter, then Linux always wins. Just saying if you really need Windows, there's an option that's not adware still. It is also the same as the consumer editions in that the only limitation if you don't activate is the watermark and inability to customize the desktop.

[irusensei]

Correct me here but Server and Enterprise/LTS have a proper evaluation period (180 day?) that upon expiration shutdowns the machine after 1 hour of use.

[easygenes]

It seems you're right and I was mistaken.

https://digitalitskills.com/how-to-stop-windows-server-auto-...

[irusensei]

I always wondered if some really detailed and maintained script or ansible book could make the expiration date a minor issue. Just install it again assuming there is no hardware id of sorts involved in the trial activation.

[easygenes]

The link I posted says you just disable the service that does the restarts shrug.