How to calculate Windows Server 2022 license for Hyper V manager with non-WS VM?

Question

I have a physical server with a 16-core CPU running Windows Server 2022. On the Hyper-V manager of this physical server, I'm going to install 10 VMs (however, out of these 10 VMs, only 2 will run Windows Server operating system, while the remaining 8 VMs will use other operating systems like Linux, Windows 11, etc.). So, is purchasing 1 x Windows Server 2022 Standard - 16 Core License Pack sufficient, or do I need to purchase the Data Center edition?

Answer 1

AFAIK, for your setup, the Windows Server 2022 Standard - 16 Core License Pack should be sufficient. Windows Server 2022 Standard License covers up to 2 virtual machines (VMs) running Windows Server. This means, with a 16-core license, you are entitled to run two Windows Server 2022 VMs.

There is a somewhat similar scenario described at https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/discussions/windowsserver/clarification-on-server-2022-standard-vs-datacenter-licensing/4007327

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hth

Marcin

Answer 2

Hi Thành Long Đặng,

If the physical server is used solely to host VMs, your Windows Server 2022 Standard license permits 2 Windows Server 2022 Standard VMs, or you need one additional Windows Server 2022 Standard license.

Windows Server | Licensing Guide

Best Regards,

Ian Xue

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Answer 3

The licensing you're referring to is for Windows Server VMs. There is no additional licensing requirement for VMs running a non-Windows OS

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If the above response helps answer your question, remember to "Accept Answer" so that others in the community facing similar issues can easily find the solution. Your contribution is highly appreciated.

hth

Marcin