However, finding the correct download link, understanding the difference between editions (Standard vs. Datacenter), and knowing how to test before you buy can be a minefield of broken links and confusing Microsoft documentation.

| Method | Cost | Legal | Safe | Duration | |--------|------|-------|------|----------| | Microsoft Evaluation Center | Free | ✅ | ✅ | 180 days trial | | MSDN / Visual Studio subscription | Paid license | ✅ | ✅ | Permanent | | Third-party / Torrent | Free | ❌ | ❌ | Unknown |