Buy Windows Server License
Windows Server as a used volume license, in Standard and Datacenter, from 2016 to 2025. With a complete chain of title, matching client access licenses and a core calculation that we work through for your hardware.
Licenses in this category
Our stock changes constantly. If your version is not listed, ask us about it.
Standard or Datacenter: the math that decides
The choice between Standard and Datacenter is not a question of the size of your company, but a pure calculation. Both editions are technically almost identical. The difference lies in virtualization: Standard covers two virtual instances per licensed server, Datacenter an unlimited number.
The rule of thumb: up to two virtual machines, Standard is cheaper. From about the fifth or sixth virtual machine on the same hardware, the calculation tips in favor of Datacenter, because otherwise you would have to stack multiple Standard licenses. In between lies a range where it depends on your expansion plans.
How many core licenses you need
Licensing is based on physical processor cores, not on servers. Two minimum values apply, and both must always be met: at least 16 cores per server and at least 8 cores per processor. A server with two processors of 6 cores each physically has 12 cores, but must still be licensed with 16.
If your server has more than 16 cores, all physical cores must be covered. Additional licenses are added in steps of two. Tell us the number of processors and the cores per processor and we will work it out for you before you order.
What to check before you buy
Do not forget the client access licenses
The server license allows operation, not access. Every user and every device additionally needs a CAL. This is the most common finding in license audits, and it almost always comes to light only when it becomes unpleasant.
The CAL version must at least match the server version
A 2019 CAL does not entitle you to access a 2022 server. The reverse works. Anyone planning a migration therefore sensibly buys the client access licenses in the target version right away.
Check downgrade rights
Volume licenses generally allow the use of an older version of the same edition. This is useful if a business application is not yet certified for the new version. We note for every license what specifically applies.
Include the end of support in the calculation
Older versions are cheaper, but run out of support sooner. What matters is not the price, but the price per year of remaining support. We give you the date for every version.
Frequently asked questions
How many core licenses do I need exactly?
At least 16 per server and at least 8 per processor; both values must be met. If your server has more cores, all physical cores must be licensed. Tell us the number of processors and the cores per processor and we will work it out.
When does Datacenter pay off?
As a rough guide, from the fifth or sixth virtual machine on the same hardware. The exact threshold depends on the price difference in the specific quote. Describe your virtualization plans to us and we will compare both variants.
Does the host server count in virtualization?
If the host serves exclusively to manage the virtual machines, it is covered by the Standard license. As soon as other services run on it, it counts as an instance of its own.
May I use an older version than the one purchased?
As a rule, yes, through the downgrade rights. This allows the use of an older version of the same edition, for example if a business application does not yet support the new one.
Do I get updates as with a new license?
Yes. You receive security updates to the same extent as long as the version is supported. Technically there is no difference from a newly purchased license.
How does activation work in the data center?
Via a multiple activation key or via your own activation service. Both are common in a business environment. We state the activation method for every license.
Other license categories
Need more than one product family? We put the combination together and check which client access licenses (CALs) belong with it.
Request pricing
Tell us the product and quantity. You will receive a firm quote including the scope of documentation.