Windows Server 2022 Licences
Windows Server 2022 Standard vs Datacenter
| Standard | Datacenter |
|---|
| Licensing | Per core, 16-core minimum per server | Per core, 16-core minimum per server |
| Virtual machines (OSEs) | 2 per fully licensed server | Unlimited |
| Hyper-V | Yes | Yes |
| Storage Spaces Direct, software-defined networking | No | Yes |
| Best for | Physical or lightly virtualised servers | Heavily virtualised hosts and clusters |
Key Features of Windows Server 2022
- Secured-core server support with TPM 2.0 and System Guard
- TLS 1.3 enabled by default and SMB AES-256 encryption
- SMB compression and improved Storage Migration Service
- Hyper-V nested virtualisation on AMD processors
- Azure Arc and hybrid management through Windows Admin Center
Support Lifecycle
Windows Server 2022 left mainstream support on October 13, 2026 and receives security updates until October 14, 2031, giving years of supported use. For the longest runway on a brand-new server, consider Windows Server 2025.
Do You Need CALs?
Windows Server Standard and Datacenter require a Client Access Licence (CAL) for each user or device that connects to the server. Remote Desktop Services needs separate RDS CALs on top of that, beyond the two administrative sessions included with every server. Choose RDS User CALs when people connect from several devices, or RDS Device CALs for shared PCs. Our RDS CAL activation guide explains installation.
How to Install and Activate
Follow our Windows Server 2022 Standard installation guide or the Datacenter guide. Both cover clean installs, evaluation conversion and activation errors.
Why Buy From Microsoft Software Swap?
- Genuine licences that activate online through the publisher's own servers.
- Instant email delivery of your key, download link and invoice, usually within minutes.
- 30-day money-back guarantee if the licence doesn't work for you.
- Lifetime replacement warranty: if an activated key ever stops working, we replace it free.
- 24/7 email support for installation and activation, plus step-by-step installation guides.
Windows Server 2022 FAQ
How many virtual machines can I run on Windows Server 2022 Standard?
Two per fully licensed server. Datacenter allows unlimited virtual machines.
Can I upgrade Windows Server 2022 Standard to Datacenter?
Yes. Run DISM /online /Set-Edition:ServerDatacenter with a Datacenter key; no reinstall is needed.
How do I convert the evaluation version to full?
Use DISM with your Standard or Datacenter key to switch the evaluation edition to the licensed edition.
Is there a Windows Server 2022 Essentials retail licence?
No. Choose Standard, or Windows Server 2019 Essentials for very small offices.
When does Windows Server 2022 support end?
Security updates continue until October 14, 2031.
Useful Links
