Microsoft Windows Server

Windows Server is Microsoft's server operating system for file sharing, user management, virtualization and business applications. Choose the version and edition that fits your setup. Each option is a 16-core license, delivered as a digital product key.

Why choose Windows Server

• One server, many roles: run Active Directory, file and print services, web hosting and Remote Desktop services.
• Virtualization built in: Hyper-V lets you run several virtual servers on one machine.
• Containers included: unlimited Windows containers on both Standard and Datacenter.
• Pick the right edition: Standard for small to mid-size setups, Datacenter for large-scale virtualization.

Compare the versions

How the licensing works

• Windows Server is licensed per core. Every physical server needs at least 16 core licenses (and at least 8 per processor).
• Each option here covers 16 cores. If your server has more cores, you need more core licenses.
• Client Access Licenses (CALs) are required for every user or device that connects to the server. They are not included. CALs must match your server version, so 2022 CALs do not work with Windows Server 2025.
• Standard allows up to 2 virtual machines on a licensed server. Datacenter allows unlimited virtual machines.

Minimum requirements

What you get

How to activate

Download the software from Microsoft's official website and enter your key when it asks for activation. See our step-by-step redeem guide.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need CALs?
Yes. Every user or device that accesses the server needs a CAL of the same version. They are sold separately.

Standard or Datacenter?
Pick Standard if you run up to 2 virtual machines. Pick Datacenter if you need unlimited virtual machines.