Extend Windows 7 Trial: 30 to 120 Days
Extending the Windows 7 Trial Period
It's possible to install Windows 7 without immediately providing a product key. This allows for a fully functional 30-day evaluation period.
However, many users are unaware that this initial trial can be prolonged. The evaluation period can be extended to a total of 120 days without the need for a license key.
How to Extend the Trial
The process involves executing a simple command when the initial 30-day period is nearing its end. Following this, a system reboot is required.
Each execution of the command adds another 30 days to the trial, up to a maximum duration of 120 days. This method is applicable to all versions of Windows 7, regardless of their source.
Additional Information
For those interested in exploring pre-release versions, consider the Windows 7 Beta.
Microsoft previously offered beta keys with an extended validity period, specifically until August 1st. A visual guide to the Windows 7 Beta is available for reference.
Important Note: This method is intended for evaluation purposes. Users intending to continue using Windows 7 beyond the 120-day trial must purchase a valid product key.
Prolonging the Windows 7 Trial Period by 30 Days
Initially, it’s essential to determine the remaining duration of your current trial. This can be accomplished by right-clicking on “Computer” within the start menu and selecting “Properties…” from the context menu.
The number of days remaining for activation will be displayed at the bottom of the window that appears. In my instance, 29 days were available, as the operating system was newly installed yesterday.
To implement the method for extending the trial period, locate “Command Prompt” in the start menu, or utilize the search function. Subsequently, right-click on the application and choose “Run as administrator.” This step is crucial for successful execution.
The following command must then be entered into the Command Prompt window:
slmgr -rearm
Typically, a confirmation dialog will appear within seconds, indicating successful completion of the command. A system reboot is then required.
Re-examining the system properties will reveal that the activation period has been reset, now displaying 30 days remaining.
It is generally advisable to execute this procedure close to the trial’s expiration date, ideally on the final day before activation is required. While not definitively confirmed, it is believed that this technique may also function even after the initial 30-day trial has lapsed.
