Microsoft Windows Server 2022 Datacenter - 2 Core License | Additional Core Licensing
Microsoft Windows Server 2022 Datacenter - 2 Core License
š§ Additional Core Licensing for Datacenter Edition
- ā 2-Core License Pack for servers exceeding 16 cores
- ā Unlimited Virtual Machines (VM) with Hyper-V when combined with base license
- ā Full Datacenter Features including software-defined networking and storage
- ā ļø Requires base 16-core license (sold separately)
- š License all physical cores for compliance
š„ Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Features
š”ļø Advanced Multilayer Security
Secured-core server technology, hypervisor-based code integrity (HVCI), hardware-enforced stack protection, and TLS 1.3 enabled by default for maximum security.
āļø Hybrid Cloud Integration
Built-in Azure Arc integration allows seamless management of on-premises servers through Azure portal with centralized governance and monitoring.
š Unlimited Virtualization
Run unlimited virtual machines with advanced Hyper-V features including live migration, VM clones, and affinity rules for maximum flexibility.
š Core Licensing Requirements
| Server Cores | Base License Required | Additional 2-Core Packs Needed | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 cores | 1x 16-Core Base | 0 | Base license only |
| 18 cores | 1x 16-Core Base | 1x 2-Core Pack | Base + This license |
| 20 cores | 1x 16-Core Base | 2x 2-Core Packs | Base + 2x This license |
| 24 cores | 1x 16-Core Base | 4x 2-Core Packs | Base + 4x This license |
š Datacenter vs Standard Edition Benefits
ā Datacenter Edition Advantages
- Unlimited OSEs/VMs - Run as many virtual machines as hardware supports
- Software-Defined Networking - Advanced network virtualization capabilities
- Software-Defined Storage - Storage Spaces Direct and unlimited Storage Replica
- Shielded Virtual Machines - Enhanced VM security with encryption
- Host Guardian Service - Attestation and key protection for VMs
ā Frequently Asked Questions
What is this 2-core license used for?
This 2-core license pack is used to license additional cores beyond the minimum 16-core requirement. If your physical server has 18, 20, 24, or more cores, you need additional 2-core packs to cover all physical cores. Each pack covers 2 additional cores and maintains full Datacenter edition features.
Do I need a base license first?
Yes, you must purchase a base Windows Server 2022 Datacenter 16-core license first (SKU: P71-09389). This 2-core pack is an add-on license that cannot be used standalone. The base license provides the foundation, and these packs extend coverage to additional cores.
How do I calculate how many 2-core packs I need?
Count your server's total physical cores, subtract 16 (covered by base license), then divide by 2. For example: 24-core server needs (24-16)/2 = 4 additional 2-core packs. Always round up to the nearest even number if you have an odd number of additional cores.
Does this include unlimited virtualization rights?
Yes, when combined with the base Datacenter license, this maintains unlimited virtualization rights. You can run as many VMs as your hardware supports, with full access to software-defined networking, storage, and all Datacenter edition features across all licensed cores.
What happens if I don't license all cores?
Microsoft requires licensing ALL physical cores in the server. Running unlicensed is a compliance violation that can result in significant penalties during audits. Always ensure you have enough 2-core packs to cover every physical core beyond the base 16.
Can I use this for multiple servers?
No, each 2-core pack is tied to a specific physical server and its base license. If you have multiple servers, each needs its own base license plus the appropriate number of 2-core packs based on that server's core count.
What's included with Datacenter edition features?
Full Datacenter features include unlimited VMs, Storage Spaces Direct, unlimited Storage Replica, software-defined networking, Network Controller, shielded VMs, Host Guardian Service, and all security enhancements like secured-core server and HVCI protection.
How is this license delivered?
Digital delivery via email within 24 hours of purchase. You'll receive your genuine Microsoft product key, installation instructions, and documentation. This license integrates with your existing base license for seamless core coverage expansion.
Is this compatible with Windows Server 2019 licenses?
No, this 2-core pack is specifically for Windows Server 2022 Datacenter edition. It cannot be mixed with 2019 licenses. If upgrading from 2019, you'll need to purchase a complete 2022 licensing set (base + required 2-core packs).
What support is provided?
Microsoft provides full support for licensed installations including documentation, community forums, and professional support plans. Licensing support helps ensure compliance, and technical support covers installation and configuration assistance.
āļø Licensing Compliance
Important: Microsoft licensing requires covering ALL physical cores in your server. This 2-core pack ensures compliance when your server exceeds the 16-core minimum. Proper licensing protects against audit penalties and ensures access to all Datacenter edition features.
Best Practice: Calculate your exact core requirements before purchase. Contact our licensing specialists if you need assistance determining the correct number of 2-core packs for your server configuration.