What defines Windows Server Standard
Windows Server Standard is designed for environments running a small number of virtual machines. Each licensed server covers two virtual instances. If you want to run more virtual machines, you can purchase the server's core licensing again and thereby cover additional instances.
Licensing is based on physical processor cores. Microsoft defines a minimum purchase per server, regardless of how many cores are physically installed. The exact number of core licenses required depends on the hardware. We calculate this with you as part of a free consultation.
Standard or Datacenter
- Windows Server Standard if you run only a few virtual machines, typically up to a handful. This applies to most SMBs.
- Datacenter if you run many virtual machines on the same host. Beyond a certain number, Datacenter with its unlimited instances becomes more economical.
- Rule of thumb. Anyone planning more than a double-digit number of VMs per host should have Datacenter calculated.
- Don't forget CALs. Standard additionally requires CALs for every accessing user or device.