Question regarding entering product key

i have brand new hp proliant server using vmware host.  i have guest server 2012 essentials machine on it.  it configured, tested, , , running.  has been 4-5 weeks. put production last week.  it running fine.  but on trial key.  it comes periodically , tells me have 123 (decreasing) days left before key expires.

for whatever reason, regular ms partner not sell me 1 copy of server 2012 essentials.  there ms confusion/ issue having buy minimum of 5 products. confusing least, , tired, frustrated , done arguing it. 

totally frustrated process of dealing ms licensing, went online , purchased this: 

windows server 2012 essentials

the package not returnable once opened (for obvious reasons), want sure correct item, , contains product key work me before install it.

this downloaded ms web site , used install server. 

windowsserver2012essentials-english-install.iso

thanks insight may able provide. 

you should able convert trial version full licensed version using retail, volume license or oem key ws2012e.

 

evaluation versions , upgrade options windows server 2012
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/jj574204.aspx

 

as problem had purchasing ws2012e...  previous versions of small business server came server license , 5 cals such total order qualified for microsoft's 'minimum 5 license' purchase volume license products.  changed ws2012e includes server license.  so, need 'pad' order like:

-------------------------------
66j-05385 msob4at. microsoft windows vista business dvd playback pack
license ob6

qty 4, $4.56 each

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i believe sbs 2011 essentials had same licensing issue.

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merv  porter
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Windows Server  >  Windows Server 2012 Essentials