Understanding Windows Server 2019 Licensing for Devs

Windows Server 2019, the latest addition to the Windows Server family, is a powerful, feature-rich operating system that offers improved security, hybrid capabilities, and innovative networking solutions. But as a developer, you might be wondering how to license your Windows Server 2019 installation and what the different licensing options are. In this article, we’ll explore Windows Server 2019 licensing in depth and help you choose the best licensing model for your needs.

What is Windows Server 2019 Licensing?

Windows Server 2019 licensing is the process of obtaining legal permission to use the operating system on your server. Licensing ensures that you are complying with Microsoft’s terms and conditions and that you have access to support and updates. There are several licensing options available for Windows Server 2019, each with its own features and limitations.

Per-Core Licensing

One of the most common licensing models for Windows Server 2019 is per-core licensing. Under this model, you pay for the number of physical cores in your server. The minimum requirement is 8 core licenses for each physical processor and a minimum of 16 core licenses for each server. The advantage of per-core licensing is that you can run an unlimited number of virtual machines on your server, as long as the number of virtual cores remains within the licensed limit.

For example, if you have a server with two physical processors, each with 12 cores, you’ll need to purchase a total of 24 core licenses (2 processors x 12 cores per processor) to run Windows Server 2019. This will allow you to run an unlimited number of virtual machines on the server, as long as the total number of virtual cores remains within the licensed limit.

Per-Core Licensing FAQ

Server + CAL Licensing

Another licensing model for Windows Server 2019 is server + CAL licensing. This model requires you to purchase a license for each server and a Client Access License (CAL) for each user or device that accesses the server. The advantage of this model is that it allows you to provide access to a larger number of users or devices without having to purchase additional core licenses.

For example, if you have a server with 50 users that need to access it, you’ll need to purchase a Windows Server 2019 license for the server and 50 CALs. You can then add more users or devices as needed by purchasing additional CALs.

Server + CAL Licensing FAQ

Choosing the Right Licensing Model

Choosing the right licensing model for your Windows Server 2019 installation depends on several factors, including your budget, the number of cores in your server, and the number of users or devices that need to access it. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

Consider Your Budget

If you have a limited budget, per-core licensing may be the most cost-effective option for you, especially if you have a server with a large number of cores. On the other hand, if you have a smaller server and a limited number of users or devices, server + CAL licensing may be a more affordable choice.

Count Your Cores

Make sure you know how many cores your server has before you choose a licensing model. If you have a server with a small number of cores, per-core licensing may not be necessary. Similarly, if you have a server with a large number of cores, server + CAL licensing may not be the most cost-effective option.

Consider Your User Base

If you have a large number of users or devices that need to access your server, server + CAL licensing may be the best choice. This model allows you to provide access to more users or devices without having to purchase additional core licenses. However, if you have a small user base, per-core licensing may be a more affordable option.

Think About Virtualization

If you plan to run virtual machines on your server, per-core licensing may be the best choice to ensure that you have enough licensing to cover all your virtual cores. However, if you don’t plan to use virtualization, server + CAL licensing may be a more affordable option.

Conclusion

Windows Server 2019 licensing can be complex, but understanding the different licensing options available can help you choose the right model for your needs. Whether you choose per-core licensing or server + CAL licensing, make sure you have enough licenses to cover all your cores and users or devices. This will ensure that you are compliant with Microsoft’s terms and conditions and that you have access to support and updates.