How to license one additional VM with server OS

Question

I have a client who currently has 4 VMs on a HyperV Host (48 core host) already licensed.

They would like to add one additional VM (4core)

Can I just purchase 2 of the 2core Licenses to reach my 4core VM

Do I have to purchase the minimum 8 core?

I was also told I need to purchase a new license for the host itself, meaning 48 core Server OS license.

Answer 1

Hello,

According to your descrption, I checked some information below:

Additional VM: For each VM that runs a version of Windows Server, you need a license. However, the licensing is based on the physical cores of the host, not the virtual cores assigned to the VM. This means if you add one VM (4core), you don’t necessarily need to purchase a 4core license or a 2core x 2 license.

Minimum 8-Core Purchase: Microsoft’s Windows Server licensing scheme requires a minimum of 8 core licenses per physical processor (CPU). However, if your HyperV host already has an existing Windows Server license and has the available VMs under that license unused, you might not need to purchase additional licenses.

Purchase License for Host: Generally, Windows Server licensing should cover the physical cores of the host. If there’s going to be any kind of increase in VMs on a server, then you should be on the lookout for an increase in licensing from the minimum 16 cores (2 CPU x 8 cores) up to the total number of actual cores in the server.

At last, I suggest that consult your reseller or Microsoft VLSC directly for more concrete advice regarding your particular situation.

Best Regards,

Hania Lian

============================================

If the Answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and upvote it.