Unable to Upgrade to Windows Server 2012 R2

I searched internet but there is no more information about this specific error message.

When you upgrade to Windows Server 2012 R2 or 2016. You may see following error message:

Windows won’t install unless each of these things is taken care of. Close Windows Setup, take care of each one, and then restart Windows Setup to continue.

Upgrades to this build have been disabled.

The reason is there is a hidden parameter in the image disabled uprading. You can only re-install by the image but cannot do upgrading. You have to ask vendor provide you a right copy, or buy Microsoft official image to do upgrading. I cannot publish the parameter due to legal reason.

Most of hardware vendors sale Windows copy along with new hardware. This kind of Windows calls OEM version. There are several different versions of Windows:

OEM SLP – This key comes pre-installed in Windows, when it comes from the Factory. This key is geared to work with the OEM Bios Flag found only on that Manufacturer’s computer hardware. So when Windows was installed using the OEM SLP key (at the factory) Windows looks at the motherboard and sees the proper OEM Bios Flag (for that Manufacturer and that version of Windows) and Self-Activates. (that’s why you did not need to Activate your computer after you brought it home)

OEM COA SLP – This is the Product key that you see on the sticker on the side (or bottom) of your computer. It is a valid product key, but should only be used in limited situations. The key must be activated by Phone. Usually you don’t have to input key during Windows installation since it check your hardware to get key.

OEM COA NSLP – Similar to OEM COA SLP license. Only different is you need to input the key during Windows installation. You must follow EULA to stay the copy on same computer forever.

Retail – Product keys are what the customer gets when he buys a Full Packaged Product (FPP), commonly known as a “boxed copy”, of Windows from a retail merchant or purchases Windows online from the Microsoft Store.

KMS Client and Volume MAK – They are issued by organizations for use on client computers associated in some way with the organization. Volume license keys may not be transferred with the computer if the computer changes ownership. Consult your organization or the Volume Licensing Service Center for help with volume license keys.

Hardware vendors may don’t allow you upgrade Windows in certain licensing mode. So they may provide you a newer Windows image to request you  do re-install on the computers but not upgrading.

Please refer following links for license key details.

What is the difference between SLP and NSLP versions of Windows 7?

Windows License Types Explained

HPE OEM Microsoft Windows Server FAQ Series- Part 1: Licensing Overview

HPE OEM Microsoft Windows Server FAQ Series- Part 2: OEM Licensing Basics

HPE OEM Microsoft Windows Server FAQ Series- Part 3: Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity (COA)

HPE OEM Microsoft Windows Server FAQ Series- Part 4: Windows Server 2016 Basics

HPE OEM Microsoft Windows Server FAQ Series- Part 5: Core-Based Licensing

HPE OEM Microsoft Windows Server FAQ Series- Part 6: Reseller Option Kit

HPE OEM Microsoft Windows Server FAQ Series- Part 7: Client Access Licenses (CALs)

HPE OEM Microsoft Windows Server FAQ Series- Part 8: OEM License Support