Setting Up a Backup Server

Question

How many physical servers can I install with a single Server 2012 R2 license?

Do you need to run a separate installation of Server 2012 R2 to install a backup secondary domain controller?

Answer 1

Hi @Stephen Davis ,

It depends on the type of license you have, please also note that these are technical forums, and is not meant for providing legal advice on licensing. licensing questions are best asked directly to a trained Microsoft licensing specialist.

You can contact Microsoft directly and discuss your licensing needs - www.microsoft.com/licensing

You'll also find some licensing information here:

• https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/pricing
• Windows Server 2012 R2 Licensing Datasheet
• Windows Server 2012 R2 licensing guide

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Best regards,
Leon

Answer 2

Hi,

The licensing requirement depends on the server editions.

The licensing for Datacenter edition will continue to be processor plus CAL (Client Access License), with each license covering up to two physical processors on a single server.
The licensing for Standard edition will continue to be processor plus CAL, with each license covering up to two physical processors on a single server, just like Datacenter edition.
The licensing for Essentials will continue to be a server license for a two processor server that does not require CALs.
The licensing for Foundation has not changed; it continues to be a server license for a one-processor server that does not require CALs and is sold only through OEM (original equipment manufacturer).

Based on above information, a single Server 2012 R2 license might support only one physical server.

For your reference:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/licensing/product-licensing/windows-server-2012-r2?activetab=windows-server-2012-r2-pivot:primaryr2
https://www.google.com.hk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiFkeeM68_xAhX7ILcAHU2zAC0QFjAAegQIBhAD&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdownload.microsoft.com%2Fdownload%2Ff%2F3%2F9%2Ff39124f7-0177-463c-8a08-582463f96c9d%2Fwindows_server_2012_r2_licensing_datasheet.pdf&usg=AOvVaw3CPe_0Rz_qdUZTeQ7U-B7D

But for double confirmation, we suggest that you could contact the Microsoft licensing specialist for more detailed information.
Please use the Guide to Worldwide Microsoft Licensing Sites (https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/licensing/worldwide) to find contact information in your locations. 

Thanks,

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