How Much Does Bulk Licensing for Windows Server 2019 Cost?

Are you considering bulk licensing for Windows Server 2019, but are unsure of the costs involved? Many organizations, particularly those with larger IT infrastructures, can benefit from buying licenses in bulk. However, understanding the pricing models and factors involved can be challenging.

In this article, we’ll explore the different licensing options available for Windows Server 2019, with a specific focus on bulk licensing. We’ll delve into the factors that affect pricing, and provide tips on how to save money when licensing your servers.

Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, understanding your licensing options can help you make informed decisions and save money in the long run. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of Windows Server 2019 licensing!

Read on to discover the best ways to save money on bulk licensing for Windows Server 2019, and learn more about the factors that affect pricing. By the end of this article, you’ll have a deeper understanding of licensing options, costs, and best practices for managing your licenses.

Overview of Windows Server 2019 Licensing Options

Windows Server 2019 is an essential tool for any organization looking to streamline their IT infrastructure. However, choosing the right licensing option can be a daunting task, especially for those unfamiliar with the various options available. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together this overview of the different licensing options offered by Microsoft.

One of the most common licensing options is Open Licensing. This option is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses that need flexibility in terms of the number of licenses required and the ability to pay as they go. With Open Licensing, customers can purchase licenses as needed and use the Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC) to manage their licenses.

For larger organizations that require a higher number of licenses, Enterprise Agreement is a popular choice. This option provides customers with a comprehensive set of software and services, including Windows Server, and is designed for businesses with over 250 users or devices. Enterprise Agreement also offers various benefits, such as software assurance, deployment planning services, and technical support.

Another licensing option available is Cloud Solution Provider (CSP). This option is ideal for businesses that want to use Windows Server in a cloud environment. With CSP, customers can pay a monthly fee for access to Windows Server and other Microsoft products. CSP also offers the flexibility to add or remove licenses as needed, making it an excellent option for businesses with fluctuating user or device counts.

Lastly, for organizations that require a high level of flexibility, Microsoft Products and Services Agreement (MPSA) is a popular option. This option allows customers to purchase various Microsoft products and services under one agreement, including Windows Server. MPSA also offers the flexibility to add or remove licenses as needed, with the ability to pay as you go or prepay for up to three years.

Now that you have a better understanding of the different licensing options available for Windows Server 2019, you can make a more informed decision when choosing the right option for your organization. However, there are still a lot of factors to consider when making this decision, so be sure to read on to learn more about the pros and cons of bulk licensing, calculating costs, and best practices for managing licenses.

Per Core Licensing Model

The Per Core Licensing model is designed for organizations with highly virtualized environments, making it an ideal choice for datacenters and cloud-based infrastructure. The model requires organizations to purchase a license for each physical core on each server running Windows Server 201The minimum number of core licenses required for each server is 16, and licenses are sold in packs of two.

One benefit of this model is that it allows for more flexibility in terms of the number of virtual machines (VMs) that can be run on each server. It also eliminates the need for individual client access licenses (CALs), as all users and devices are covered by the license. Another advantage is that the license can be reassigned to a different server as needed, as long as it is reassigned at least every 90 days.

Organizations can choose between the Standard and Datacenter editions of Windows Server 2019 with the Per Core Licensing model. The Standard edition is ideal for organizations with low-density or non-virtualized environments, while the Datacenter edition is recommended for highly virtualized environments and cloud-based infrastructures.

It’s important to note that the cost of the license depends on the number of cores required and the edition chosen. The cost of each license increases with the number of cores needed, so organizations with a large number of servers or highly virtualized environments may find this model to be more expensive than other licensing options.

Bulk Licensing: Cost Savings for Larger Organizations

Bulk licensing is a smart choice for larger organizations that need to deploy Windows Server 2019 on multiple devices. By purchasing a large number of licenses at once, organizations can take advantage of significant cost savings.

For example, with the Windows Server 2019 Datacenter edition, organizations can license all of the cores on a server, which can be much more cost-effective than purchasing individual licenses for each user or device. Additionally, volume licensing programs offer further discounts and flexible payment options for bulk license purchases.

Another advantage of bulk licensing is the ease of management. Instead of keeping track of multiple licenses, organizations can manage all of their licenses in one place, which saves time and reduces administrative overhead.

However, organizations need to keep in mind that bulk licensing requires careful planning to ensure that they purchase the correct number of licenses and stay compliant with licensing requirements. It is important to assess the organization’s needs and usage patterns before purchasing licenses.

In summary, bulk licensing is an excellent option for larger organizations that need to deploy Windows Server 2019 on multiple devices. With cost savings, ease of management, and flexible payment options, bulk licensing can be a smart choice for organizations that are looking to get the most out of their Windows Server 2019 deployment.

How Bulk Licensing Works

Organizations that need to purchase a large number of Windows Server 2019 licenses can save money through bulk licensing. Microsoft offers several options for volume licensing, including Enterprise Agreements, Select Plus, and Open Value. These agreements allow organizations to purchase multiple licenses at a discounted price.

Bulk licensing works by offering a discounted price per license based on the number of licenses purchased. The more licenses an organization buys, the lower the price per license. For example, an organization that purchases 100 licenses will pay less per license than an organization that purchases only 10 licenses.

In addition to volume discounts, bulk licensing also provides flexibility in license management. Organizations can manage all their licenses through a single agreement, making it easier to keep track of licenses and ensure compliance with licensing requirements.

Before considering bulk licensing for Windows Server 2019, it’s important to ensure that your organization meets the minimum requirements. The first requirement is a minimum order of 16 core licenses, which can be used to license up to two physical processors with up to eight cores each.

In addition, to qualify for bulk licensing, your organization must have a Microsoft Volume Licensing agreement, which provides access to special pricing and licensing options for large-scale deployments of Microsoft products.

Another important consideration is that bulk licensing is only available for the Datacenter and Standard editions of Windows Server 2019, which offer different feature sets and licensing options.

Finally, it’s important to note that the pricing for bulk licensing is based on a number of factors, including the number of licenses purchased, the edition of Windows Server 2019 being licensed, and the specific licensing agreement in place.

Benefits of Bulk Licensing

Bulk licensing for Windows Server 2019 offers numerous benefits that can help organizations save money, streamline their licensing process, and simplify compliance. Here are some of the top benefits of bulk licensing:

1. Cost savings: One of the biggest benefits of bulk licensing is cost savings. Organizations can save a significant amount of money by purchasing licenses in bulk instead of individually.
2. Flexible license management: With bulk licensing, organizations can easily manage and track their licenses through a centralized system. This makes it easier to keep track of license usage and ensure compliance.
3. Streamlined deployment: Bulk licensing also enables organizations to quickly and easily deploy Windows Server 2019 across multiple devices, reducing deployment time and minimizing downtime.
4. Access to the latest features: Organizations that purchase bulk licenses may also be eligible for additional benefits, such as access to the latest features and updates.

Overall, bulk licensing can be a smart choice for larger organizations that need to manage a large number of licenses across multiple devices. Not only can it save money, but it can also simplify license management and streamline deployment.

Calculating Costs: Factors that Affect Bulk Licensing Prices

Number of licenses: The number of licenses needed is a significant factor in determining the cost of bulk licensing for Windows Server 201Generally, the more licenses you need, the lower the price per license will be.

Licensing Program: Microsoft offers different licensing programs to meet different needs. For example, the Enterprise Agreement program is designed for larger organizations that want to standardize on Microsoft technologies across their entire organization, while the Server and Cloud Enrollment (SCE) program is designed for businesses with at least 500 users or devices.

License Type: There are two types of licenses available for Windows Server 2019: Standard and Datacenter. The cost of bulk licensing will depend on which license type you choose. Datacenter licenses allow for an unlimited number of virtual machines, while Standard licenses allow for two virtual machines.

Payment Method: The method of payment can also affect the cost of bulk licensing. Organizations that pay upfront for a multi-year agreement may receive a discount, while those that choose to pay annually may pay a higher price.

By understanding these factors that affect bulk licensing prices, organizations can make informed decisions about their Windows Server 2019 licensing options. Keep reading to learn more about how to choose the right licensing program and how to get the best price for your organization.

Number of Cores Required

One of the main factors that affect the cost of bulk licensing for Windows Server 2019 is the number of cores required. The licensing model is based on a per-core basis, so the more cores required, the higher the licensing costs will be. Organizations can choose to purchase licenses for as many or as few cores as they need, making it a flexible option for businesses of all sizes.

It’s important to note that the number of cores required will vary depending on the specific needs of each organization. Small businesses may only require a few cores, while larger enterprises may need licenses for hundreds or even thousands of cores.

Organizations should carefully assess their current and future needs when determining how many cores they require for Windows Server 201This can help them make an informed decision and ensure they’re not overspending on licensing costs.

Software Assurance and Maintenance Costs

Software Assurance: This is an optional add-on that provides access to the latest software releases, support, training, and other benefits. It typically costs 25% to 30% of the license cost per year.

Maintenance: This includes support, bug fixes, and security updates for the software. It is typically included with the license cost for the first year and then costs between 15% to 20% of the license cost per year after that.

Benefits: Software Assurance and maintenance can provide significant benefits for organizations that require the latest software features and updates, as well as ongoing support for their systems. These costs can be offset by the savings achieved through bulk licensing.

Considerations: Before purchasing Software Assurance and maintenance, organizations should carefully consider their needs and usage patterns to ensure that the costs are justified and provide a good return on investment.

Volume Licensing vs Retail: Which is the Better Choice?

When purchasing software, businesses have two main options: volume licensing or retail. Volume licensing is the process of purchasing a large number of software licenses at once for a discounted price, while retail involves purchasing individual licenses at full price.

One advantage of volume licensing is that it can be more cost-effective for businesses that need many licenses. Retail licenses can be more expensive and require a separate purchase for each individual user or device.

On the other hand, retail licensing can be a better choice for smaller businesses that only need a few licenses or for individuals who only need a single license. Retail licenses can also offer more flexibility in terms of customization and support options.

Advantages of Volume Licensing

Cost Savings: One of the primary advantages of volume licensing is cost savings. Purchasing licenses in bulk often results in significant discounts compared to buying individual licenses at retail prices.

Convenient Management: Volume licensing allows organizations to centrally manage software licenses across multiple devices and users, making it easier to track compliance and ensure that all licenses are up to date.

Flexibility: Volume licensing offers greater flexibility in terms of software deployment and licensing models. Organizations can choose from a range of licensing options, including per-user, per-device, and subscription-based licensing models.

When Retail Licensing Makes Sense

Small Business: If you have a small business with a limited number of employees, retail licensing may be more cost-effective than volume licensing. Retail licenses are sold at a fixed price, whereas volume licenses may require a minimum purchase amount.

Specific Software Needs: If your business only needs a specific type of software and doesn’t require a wide range of applications, retail licensing can be a good choice. You can purchase the specific software you need at a lower cost instead of buying a suite of software with volume licensing.

Flexibility: Retail licensing offers more flexibility in terms of upgrades and updates. You can choose when to upgrade or update your software and only pay for the upgrades you need. Volume licensing may require you to upgrade all licenses at once, even if you don’t need all the new features.

Choosing the Right Licensing Model

Choosing the right licensing model for your business is crucial to ensure that you are not overspending on licensing costs. Here are some factors to consider:

• Business size: Small businesses may benefit from retail licensing, while larger organizations may find that volume licensing is more cost-effective.
• Software usage: If your business requires a large number of software installations, volume licensing may be a better choice.
• Budget: The upfront cost of volume licensing can be significant, so it’s important to consider your budget and cash flow.
• Flexibility: Retail licensing may offer more flexibility if your business needs to add or remove software licenses frequently.
• Future growth: Consider your business’s future growth plans when choosing a licensing model to ensure that it can accommodate your needs.

Ultimately, the right licensing model will depend on your specific business needs and goals. Take the time to research and evaluate your options to make an informed decision.

Best Practices for Managing Windows Server 2019 Licenses

Keep track of license agreements: It is important to keep track of your licensing agreements, including the number of licenses purchased, their expiration dates, and the type of licenses purchased.

Regularly audit your licenses: Conducting regular audits will ensure that you are using the correct number of licenses and that they are being used in compliance with the terms of the agreement.

Plan for future growth: When purchasing licenses, it is important to consider future growth and expansion. Ensure that you have enough licenses to support your organization’s growth and that you are purchasing the correct license types.

Use volume licensing: Volume licensing is often the most cost-effective option for organizations that need a large number of licenses. Consider using volume licensing to save money and streamline license management.

Consider using a license management tool: A license management tool can help you keep track of your licenses, automate license compliance checks, and ensure that you are using your licenses efficiently.

Track License Usage and Renewal Dates

Keep Accurate Records: Maintaining accurate records of all Windows Server 2019 licenses is crucial. Keep track of the license keys, the number of licenses, and the renewal dates to avoid any compliance issues.

Use License Management Tools: License management tools like the Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC) can help you manage your licenses more efficiently. These tools can help you track usage, download software, and manage your licenses.

Monitor License Usage: Regularly monitor your license usage to ensure you are not exceeding your license agreements. You can use tools like the License Manager in Windows Server 2019 to keep track of license usage and check compliance.

Renew Licenses on Time: It’s crucial to renew your licenses on time to avoid any service interruptions or compliance issues. Create a renewal schedule and set up reminders to ensure that you don’t miss any renewal dates.

Consider Software Assurance: Software Assurance provides additional benefits, such as upgrade rights, technical support, and training. Consider purchasing Software Assurance to get the most out of your licenses and stay up to date with the latest technology.

Expert Tips for Saving Money on Windows Server 2019 Licensing

Consider Volume Licensing: If you have multiple servers or devices, volume licensing can be a more cost-effective option than purchasing individual licenses. This can also make it easier to manage your licenses and ensure compliance.

Use Subscription Licenses: Subscription licenses offer a flexible payment option that can help you save money in the short term. Instead of paying for licenses upfront, you pay a monthly or yearly fee for the licenses you need. This can also make it easier to scale up or down as your needs change.

Take Advantage of Software Assurance: With Software Assurance, you can get free upgrades to new versions of Windows Server, which can help you save money in the long run. You can also get access to other benefits, such as training and support, which can add value to your license purchase.

Use the Microsoft License Advisor Tool: This free tool can help you determine the most cost-effective licensing option for your organization based on your specific needs and usage. It takes into account factors such as the number of users and devices, and can provide customized recommendations to help you save money.

Be Mindful of Licensing Compliance: Failing to comply with licensing agreements can result in costly fines and legal fees. Make sure you understand the terms of your licensing agreement and keep track of your license usage to ensure compliance. Consider working with a licensing expert or consultant to help you navigate the complex world of licensing.

Consolidate Licenses Across Departments

Many organizations purchase licenses separately for each department, which can lead to higher costs. Consider consolidating licenses and using a centralized licensing server to manage license allocation. This approach can help to reduce overall costs and ensure that licenses are being used efficiently.

Additionally, consolidating licenses can make it easier to track usage and identify any unused licenses that can be re-allocated to other departments, further reducing costs.

Before consolidating licenses, it’s important to assess the needs of each department and ensure that the necessary licenses are available. Consult with department heads to identify any unique requirements and ensure that licenses are allocated accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions