Core Network

A centralized KMS solution is recommended for computers on the core network. This solution is for networks that have well-connected computers on multiple network segments that also have a connection to the Internet. Figure below shows a core network with a KMS host. The KMS host publishes the KMS using DDNS. KMS clients query DNS for KMS SRV RRs and activate themselves after contacting the KMS host. The KMS host is activated directly through the Internet.

Note A KMS host can be installed on a VM, but select a VM that is unlikely to be moved to a different host computer. If the virtual KMS host is moved to a different host computer, the operating system detects the change in the underlying hardware and the KMS host must reactivate with Microsoft. KMS hosts can activate with Microsoft up to nine times.