When you download the 64-bit ISO, it contains multiple installation options depending on how you want to deploy the server:

: For organizations with active licenses, you can download the full, non-evaluation version directly. Sign in to the Navigate to Downloads and Keys Search for "Windows Server 2016" and select the 64-bit ISO. Visual Studio Subscriptions (formerly MSDN)

Microsoft . The "R2" designation ended with Windows Server 2012 R2; following this, Microsoft transitioned to a different release cadence including the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) and semi-annual updates.

: Unlike Windows Server 2008 and 2012, Windows Server 2016 did not receive a secondary "R2" release. Instead, it was followed by Windows Server 2019 and the Semi-Annual Channel (SAC) updates. 64-bit Only : Windows Server 2016 was developed exclusively for x64 instruction set architectures ; there is no 32-bit (x86) version. Microsoft Learn 2. Official Download & Installation You can download the official 64-bit ISO from the Microsoft Evaluation Center Installing Windows Server 2016 - ReadAndExecute

The only safe and legal way to download the ISO without a specific license key beforehand is via the Microsoft Evaluation Center. This provides a 180-day free trial, which can be converted to a full version later by purchasing a license key.

To clarify a common point of confusion: Microsoft never released an "R2" version of Windows Server 2016

Microsoft officially released as a single major version; there is no official "R2" release for this specific year. Users often confuse this with Windows Server 2012 R2. How to Download the ISO