If you have a valid WSS 2012 R2 license, you are eligible for a discounted upgrade to Windows Server 2022 Standard (which includes Storage Server capabilities via the File Server role).

Windows Storage Server 2012 R2 Standard is a specialized operating system built on the Windows Server 2012 R2 platform, designed specifically to power appliances. Unlike the general-purpose Standard or Datacenter editions, this version was historically optimized for storage-intensive tasks and sold primarily through hardware partners as part of a turnkey solution. Where to Download the ISO

: While Microsoft previously offered trial versions, the Microsoft Evaluation Center now primarily hosts newer versions like Windows Server 2019 or 2022.

The benefits of using Windows Storage Server 2012 R2 Standard include:

This standout feature allows you to pool physical disks into virtual drives with thin provisioning and varying levels of resiliency (mirroring or parity).