This tool is a resource designed to assist in determining the appropriate number of licenses required for Microsoft’s server operating system. It considers various factors, such as the number of physical cores in the server, the number of virtual machines (VMs) being run, and the specific edition of the server software being utilized. As an example, a deployment with two physical processors, each containing 16 cores, requires a minimum of 32 core licenses, regardless of the edition chosen.
Accurate server licensing is crucial for maintaining compliance with Microsoft’s terms of service and avoiding potential legal or financial penalties. Furthermore, correct licensing ensures that organizations are paying only for the resources they need, optimizing IT budgets. Historically, server licensing has evolved from per-processor models to the current per-core model, reflecting the increasing density and virtualization capabilities of modern server hardware. Understanding the nuances of these licensing requirements is key to effective infrastructure management.
