Why is VMWare Prompting me for a Windows Product Key?

Background

MIT's License of Microsoft Windows is activated automatically using a No key Management Service (KMS) while users are connected to MITnet. There is no Windows License Key to enter. Users who are installing MIT's License of Windows on a computer should never be prompted for a key, but users who are installing MIT's License on a Virtual Machine may be prompted to a Windows Product Key as part of the installation process.

Answer

To avoid this step you need to disable the Easy Install option when setting up your VM*.*

1. Select the Installation Media. Choose install from disc or image.
   
2. Create a New Virtual Machine Choose an operating system disc or image.
   
3. Microsoft Easy Install Uncheck Use Easy Install.
   
4. *Complete the Windows install as expected. You will not be prompted for a Windows License Key.

As an alternative you could instead download and use a pre-built MIT Virtual Machine from the IS&T Software Grid.