How to license and purchase Microsoft Windows Server 2022
Microsoft operating system, Windows Server, enables comprehensive management of both hardware and software. Depending on your specific software needs, you can select from various Windows Server versions. Windows Server is primarily used for hosting network services, applications, and resources for organizations of all sizes. It provides a centralized platform for managing and securing data, applications, better security, faster reliable network, user access and cloud upgrades within a networked environment.
What are the features of Microsoft Windows Server 2022
Microsoft Windows Server 2022 comes with new features to address evolving technology trends, enhance security, improve performance, and provide better support for hybrid and cloud environments for organization of various sizes. These new features introduced includes…
1. Security Enhancements
With the increasing number of cyber threats, Windows Server 2022 introduces advanced security features such as Firmware attack prevention, Secure DNS Support, Hypervisor security, and driver capabilities all adding layers of protection against sophisticated attacks.
With the evolving of cyber-attacks in the technological landscape, these new features can spot attacks when on-going within your organization, in the case of an individuals who is compromised, these features is able to isolate them and stop further attack across your organization. The Server is saved from a total attack with this feature.
The new Server Message Block (SMB) functionality eliminates the need for a VPN for remote workers, mobile users, and organizations requiring high security. It operates on the Datagram Protocol (UDP) and consistently encrypts Internet traffic.
2. Hybrid and cloud integration
Organizations increasingly adopt hybrid cloud strategies, combining on-premises infrastructure with cloud services. Windows Server 2022 enhances this integration with Azure, offering improved management, scalability, and disaster recovery through features like Azure Arc.
Cloud-based agility through streamlined Azure Hybrid offering management functionalities is available with Windows Server 2022. The hybrid capabilities make it possible for storage migration services, and Azure Arc functions optimally in multi-cloud environments. There is an enhanced admin center that allows for comprehensive viewing, control, and management of the system, featuring improved administration tools.
3. Application platform enhancements
The latest release of Microsoft Windows Server 2022 supports modern application architectures, including enhanced features for containerization and Kubernetes. This offers developers enhanced flexibility and scalability.
Windows Server 2022 offers a versatile platform for upgrading container applications. It supports large, business-critical applications like SQL Server, which requires some level of storage capacity. Additionally, thanks to the compact size of the Windows container, the server loads 30% faster than its predecessor.
What are the different editions of Microsoft Windows Server 2022
Microsoft Windows Server 2022 comes in four different editions, each with their own set of features and capabilities:
1. Datacenter Edition: This is the most comprehensive edition of Windows Server 2022 and is designed with features that meet the requirements of large enterprises with large IT infrastructure to cater for. It includes features that allow the running of an unlimited number of virtual machines. However, note that with all the great features that come with this edition it is the cost factor that is on the high side.
2. Standard Edition: The Standard edition is suitable for small to medium-sized businesses that do not require extensive virtualization or advanced networking features. It allows users to run two virtual machines while offering fully integrated services and direct access. The licensing model is core-based and requires CALs.
3. Essentials Edition: This edition is designed for small businesses with up to 25 users and 50 devices. For the purchase of this license, it is available through Original Equipment Manufacturer only. There isn’t a dedicated installation media for Windows Server 2022 Essentials. Instead, you activate the Standard edition with an Essentials product key, providing access to all the same features.
What are the licensing models of Windows Server 2022
Windows Server 2022 Datacenter and Standard editions are licensed based on the core model. The number of core licenses you need depends on whether you are licensing based on the server’s physical cores or virtual machines. Licensing by virtual machine, a subscription license or one with active Software Assurance is required.
When licensing by physical cores, the required number of core licenses matches the number of physical cores on the server. There is a minimum requirement of 8 core licenses per physical processor and at least 16 core licenses per server.
Licensing for Virtual Machines
When licensing by virtual machine, the core licenses should be equivalent to the number of virtual cores in the virtual operating system environment (i.e., virtual machine). Each virtual machine requires a minimum of 8 core licenses, and the overall minimum is 16 core licenses per customer.
Note however that, Core licenses are purchased in 2-packs or 16-packs from resellers.
Do devices or users with Windows Server 2022 require Client Access Licenses (CAL).
Yes. Any form of channel, be it a user or a device that is used to access the services of a Windows Server needs to be licensed and this includes Windows Server 2022. However, based on your unique circumstances you can direct if it is more of user or device licenses that will work for you. You should know what will work for you if you are either acquiring the CAL for users who are in a shift system or regular workers.
An independent Microsoft licensing expert can give you the support you require.
Our team of experts can help with Windows Server 2022 licensing
Why speak to our independent licensing expert about licensing for Microsoft Windows Server 2022?
We have expertise and extensive knowledge about the complex world of software licensing. You get to leverage on our up-to-date licensing understanding, Microsoft usage policies practicality, to make the best-informed choice.
Consulting with our independent licensing expert, you can potentially save money as we ensure that you are only purchasing the necessary licenses for your business needs. We provide advice on cost-effective licensing options that are suitable for your specific business requirements.
Microsoft Windows Server 2022 has various licensing rules and regulations that must be followed to ensure compliance. Our licensing expert can help you navigate these complexities and make sure that you are in full compliance with all the necessary policies, avoiding any potential legal issues or penalties.
We believe every organization is unique, and so are their software needs. By speaking to our independent licensing expert, you can get customized solutions tailored to your specific organization’s requirements. We recommend the most suitable licenses based on factors such as the size of your organization, number of users, and specific server licenses needed.