Explore Microsoft Windows Server editions and licensing — jump to the detailed overview.
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Microsoft Windows Server — reliable foundation for SMB and home labs
Windows Server provides Active Directory, file/print services and application hosting for small and mid-sized businesses, while staying simple enough for home users/labs. Choose the edition and CALs to match your virtualization and access needs. See all offers in the Windows Server category.
Editions and licensing at a glance
- Standard — core-based licensing, ideal for classic roles and limited virtualization.
- Datacenter — includes rights for unlimited virtualization on the licensed host.
- CALs — add User or Device CALs for legal access; add RDS CALs for Remote Desktop/Apps.
Popular Windows Server licenses — quick comparison
| Product | Best for | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Windows Server 2019 Standard (16 Core) | AD, files/print, moderate virtualization in SMBs | Perpetual (lifetime) |
| Windows Server 2019 Datacenter (16 Core) | Dense virtualization, clusters and advanced features | Perpetual (lifetime) |
| Windows Server 2016 Standard (16 Core) | Compatibility with older environments and apps | Perpetual (lifetime) |
Tip: Need remote desktops/apps? Add RDS User CALs alongside your edition.
How to choose
- Start with Standard for typical roles and a few VMs; upgrade to Datacenter for heavy virtualization.
- CAL model: pick User CALs if many devices per person; Device CALs for shared PCs/thin clients.
- Running databases? See the Microsoft SQL Server category.
Related categories:
• Microsoft SQL Server — relational databases for business apps.
Digital license — what exactly do you get?
You purchase the software’s right to use (license), not a boxed product. We email an official activation key for quick and lawful activation.
More details: What does a license allow?
