Windows Server licensing

Windows Server Licensing How to License Windows Server: Licensing Windows Server can be complex, especially in diverse environments with mixed operating systems and public/private clouds. This guide simplifies the process and helps you choose the best licensing strategy. Per Core Licensing: Based on the number of physical cores in the server. Minimum of 8 core licenses per processor and 16 per server. Licenses are sold in two-core packs. Virtual Environments: License physical cores and consider the number of Virtual Machines (VMs). High Availability (HA) requires licensing all potential VMs on a host. Datacenter Edition: Unlimited VMs per server—best for over 14 VMs per server. Standard Edition: Covers two VMs per server; additional licenses needed for more VMs. Example 1: 6 hosts, 60 VMs, HA enabled. Requires 96 core Datacenter licenses or 2,880 core Standard licenses. Example 2: 2 hosts, 8 VMs, HA enabled. Requires 32 core Datacenter licenses or 128 core Standard licenses. Per VM Licensing: Licenses individual VMs—ideal for cloud infrastructures. Available only with subscription licenses or active Software Assurance. Client Access Licenses (CALs): User CALs: For users with multiple devices. Device CALs: Cost-effective for fewer devices used by multiple users. CALs must be purchased separately. Other Options: Windows Server Essentials: For small businesses—no CALs needed. Azure Hybrid Use Benefit: Cost savings for cloud environments. Understanding your organization's needs and infrastructure is key to selecting the right Windows Server licensing strategy. Evaluate options carefully to ensure compliance and cost-effectiveness. You could also read our blog on the 2Data website: https://2-data.com/windows-server-licensing https://2-data.com 0:00 Intro 1:10 How to license window server 4:50 Licensing models 10:00 Per virtual machine 11:12 Conclusion