Skip to content
To get the most out of Windows Server, you need to get your licensing lined up. This means understanding how many processors and cores you’re using, as well as how many users and devices will need access to the server. In this guide by certified Microsoft Gold partner, Trusted Tech Team, we cover the essential licensing differences between today’s top Microsoft Server versions and editions. Learn which licensing arrangement is best for you, and shop Windows Server operating systems and CALs with our team today!
How it works
- # of Processors/Cores
- # of Users or Devices that will be accessing the server
Most users will opt for Windows Server Standard, as this is the most flexible option. The Standard edition accounts for scalability while being cost effective.
Let’s go over some of the key differences between the versions and edition types.
| Server Editions | Processing Power | CALs | VM Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 16/24 Cores | Per User/Device | 2 (per 16-core license) |
| Datacenter | 16/24 Cores | Per User/Device | Unlimited |
| Feature | Standard | Datacenter |
|---|---|---|
| Core Windows Server functionality | ||
| Hybrid integration | ||
| OSEs/Hyper-V isolated containers | 2 | Unlimited |
| Windows Server containers | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Storage Replica | Limited to single Storage Replica volume up to 2TB | |
| Software-defined networking | – | |
| Software-defined storage | – |
| Server Editions | Processing Power | CALs | VM Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essentials | 1-2 CPU | N/a | N/a |
| Standard | 16/24 Cores | Per User/Device | 2 (per 16-core license) |
| Datacenter | 16/24 Cores | Per User/Device | Unlimited |
| Features | Essentials | Standard | Datacenter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core functionality of WS | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| OSEs/Hyper V Containers | – | ✓ (2x) |
✓ (unlimited) |
| Windows Server Containers | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Host Guardian Service | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Nano Server | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Storage features including Storage Spaces Direct and Storage Replica | – | – | ✓ |
| Shielded Virtual Machines | – | – | ✓ |
| Networking stack | – | – | ✓ |
| Server Editions | Processing Power | CALs | VM Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essentials | 1-2 CPU | N/a | N/a |
| Standard | 1-2 CPU | Per User/Device | 2 (Per license on host) |
| Datacenter | 1-2 CPU | Per User/Device | Unlimited |
| Server Role | Essentials | Standard/Datacenter |
|---|---|---|
| AD Certificate Services | Limited | Full |
| AD Domain Services | Limited | Full |
| Application Server | Full | Full |
| DHCP Server | Full | Full |
| DNS Server | Limited | Full |
| File Services | Limited | Full |
| Hyper-V | Full | Full |
| Network Policy & Access Servers | Limited | Full |
| Remote Desktop Access | Limited | Full |
| Server Editions | Processing Power | CALs | VM Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 2 CPU, Max 4 CPU | Per User/Device | 1 |
| Enterprise | Full | Per User/Device | Unlimited |
Standard and Datacenter 2008/ R2 have identical features. The main reason for upgrading to Datacenter would be to take advantage of the unlimited Virtual Machine and processor support.
Don’t forget you can call or schedule a call to speak with our licensing experts!
If you need assistance, feel free to give us a call! A representative will be more than happy to assist you.
855-202-8140
Sales and Support M-F 6:00am - 4:00pm PST
