How does Windows Server core licensing work?

Windows Server 2019, 2022 and SE are licensed per physical core, sold in 2-core packs. The minimum is 16 cores per server — even if your hardware has fewer, you license to that floor.

Two more rules. Every processor must be licensed for at least 8 cores. The whole server is licensed even if Windows Server runs in only one VM — you do not get to license a slice. In virtualized environments, Standard gives you 2 VM rights per fully licensed server (stackable), Datacenter gives you unlimited VM rights.

Still unsure?

Talk to a licensing specialist for a written, signed quote tailored to your environment.