Windows Server licensing
Windows Server is licensed per physical core with a 16-core minimum per server, plus a CAL for every user or device that touches it. Standard covers two VMs per licence set; Datacenter covers unlimited VMs on that host. Getting this wrong is expensive in both directions.
We review what you own, what you run and what you need, then fix the gap with the cheapest compliant option.
At a glance
| Model | Per core, 16-core minimum, 2-core and 16-core packs |
|---|---|
| Standard | 2 VMs (OSEs) per full licence; stack for more |
| Datacenter | Unlimited VMs per licensed host; usually cheaper past 5 or 6 VMs |
| CALs | User or device CALs required for Standard/Datacenter; RDS CALs separate |
| Channels | Volume licensing, CSP subscription, OEM (Dell ROK), SPLA for hosters |
What RackLedge does
- Licence position review
- Hyper-V and VMware host licence math
- CSP subscription setup
- Audit response support
How we work
Windows Server work follows the roles, not the boxes. Domain controllers, file servers, application servers, RDS and SQL each have their own migration path, and we plan them separately so one cutover does not take everything down. New servers are built from a hardened template with patching, monitoring and backup agents from day one.
Every version has a support date and we track them for you: what is in mainstream support, what is extended, what needs Extended Security Updates and what must move now. Licensing is reviewed at the same time so a refresh does not turn into an audit problem.
Hyper-V, Active Directory, RDS, Exchange and SQL Server are supported as first-class roles, with hardening baselines and documentation handed over at the end of every project.
Related services
More on windows server
Frequently asked questions
Do I need CALs for a server that only runs Hyper-V?
No CALs for the host if it only runs the Hyper-V role. The guest Windows servers and their users still need them.
Need a hand with this?
Tell us what you are running and what is slowing you down. You get a straight assessment and a plan, with no obligation. Support desk is staffed 24/7.