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Windows Server download is an operating system by Microsoft that enables you to modernize your infrastructure and applications. It brings many powerful features and tools to your organization and provides additional layers of security. The latest version, 2022, comes with advanced capabilities that bring innovation and next-gen technology. This operating system comes with enhanced security, faster performance, and efficiency to boost your business operations. This platform also helps you bridge on-premise environments with Azure.

If you are confused if you should buy Windows Server 2022 and which edition, you have landed on the right page. This blog is going to help in informing you of everything you need to know about this modern operating system.

If you wish to know about the features of this new operating system, check out our blog post on What’s New In Windows Server 2022.

Windows Server 2022 Editions

Windows Server 2022 is available in three main editions, depending on the size and virtualization requirements of the organization. All the editions offer advanced and modern technology to help you grow your business.

Windows Server 2022 Essentials

Windows Server 2022 Essentials edition is ideal for small organizations with up to 25 users and 50 devices. It is available through the specialty servers licensing model and does not require CALs. This edition is a lightweight and affordable option for businesses that do not wish to spend much. Although it’s the cheapest option for small companies, it lacks features like virtual machines, Active Directory, and failover clusters.

Windows Server 2022 Standard

Windows Server 2022 Standard edition is appropriate for businesses that require a physical or minimal virtualized environment. It is available through a core-based licensing model and requires Client Access Licenses (CALs) for every user or device to access the servers. This edition offers you core Windows Server functionality with enhanced features to support your workloads. It enables you to run two virtual machines and one Hyper-V host per license. It allows a single Storage Replica of up to 2 TB volume. This option is ideal for growing businesses with fewer virtualization requirements and does not include advanced features like software-defined networking. If your requirements expand in the future, you can always upgrade to the Datacenter edition.

Windows Server 2022 Datacenter

Windows Server 2022 Datacenter 24 Core is the high-end edition of this impressive operating system. Although this edition is the most expensive, it offers advanced capabilities for highly virtualized data centers and cloud environments. It is licensed through a core-based model as well and requires CALs for every user or device. It offers software-defined networking that benefits many organizations. It offers unlimited Storage Replica and Storage Spaces Direct features. It also allows unlimited virtual machines and support for Shielded Virtual Machines. This edition also includes unlimited OSE/Hyper-V isolated containers and Host Guardian Hyper-V Support.

What is a Windows Server Client Access License?

A Client Access License (CAL) is required to enable access to a Windows Server. A CAL allows a user or device to connect to the company’s network and access resources. CALs are of two types:

• Device CAL

A device CAL enables a device to access the server irrespective of the number of people that use it. This license is ideal in an organization where multiple users use a single device. For example, when different customers at a store access a single device or in companies where people work in shifts.

• User CAL

A User CAL enables users to access the server even via multiple devices. This licensing is ideal for organizations where employees work remotely or use multiple devices to access the company’s resources. This type of licensing is the most common option.

To know which edition and licensing is the right fit for your organization, you need to assess the requirements and environment of your business. The size and budget of your organization are also essential to take into consideration so that your investment proves worthwhile. You can also purchase the older version of  Server 2019 Retail Box if you want to go for a cheaper option and do not require the latest features.

Purchase certified Microsoft products from SoftwareDeals. We provide genuine Microsoft products at competitive prices. Speak to our technical experts 24/7 if you have any doubts or need assistance in building a robust IT infrastructure. Make the appropriate decision for your business by taking our services!