Windows Server 2012 R2 Datacenter

Windows Server 2012 R2 Datacenter – unlimited virtualisation

Windows Server 2012 R2 Datacenter allows an unlimited number of virtual Windows Server instances on a licensed host with up to two processors. It also includes Automatic Virtual Machine Activation (AVMA).

The most important features

• Unlimited VMs per licensed host
• Automatic VM activation (AVMA)
• Hyper-V with live migration and replication
• Active Directory, file and print services
• Remote Desktop Services (with RDS CALs)

Who is Windows Server 2012 R2 Datacenter for?

• virtualised existing environments
• hosts with many Server 2012 R2 VMs
• test labs

How Windows Server 2012 is licensed

For Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2, per-processor licensing still applies: one licence covers up to two physical processors of a server. The Standard edition additionally allows two virtual instances, Datacenter an unlimited number. Client access licences (CALs) are required for user access.

What Windows Server 2012 is used for today

Many specialist applications, ERP systems and industry solutions were developed and approved for Windows Server 2012 or 2012 R2. If you need to continue running such an environment on new hardware or as a virtual machine, you need the right licence. For new installations we recommend Windows Server 2025 Standard.

Editions compared

You will find more licences in the category Windows Server 2012 R2.

Don’t forget client access licences (CALs)

Every user or device that accesses the server needs a client access licence (CAL). For Remote Desktop sessions, RDS CALs are also required. You will find the right licences under Windows Server CAL and Remote Desktop Services CAL.

Typical scenarios

• Continuing to run industry software on new hardware
• Virtualising an old physical server
• Test and training environments
• Isolated special systems without internet access

Proof of licence and planning

Keep your invoice and licence documents safe – in a software audit they prove that your server is correctly licensed. Also document how many physical cores your servers have and which virtual machines run on them. If you are unsure which licences you need for your environment, we will be happy to advise you before you buy.

Virtualising older servers

If a proven application still runs on an old physical server, moving it to a virtual machine on current hardware is often worthwhile. The operating system and application remain unchanged, but the hardware becomes faster, more economical and more reliable. With the right licence, this step is properly covered. Back up the virtual machine regularly so that you can restore it quickly in an emergency.

System requirements

• Processor: 64-bit processor, 1.4 GHz or faster
• Memory: 512 MB, 2 GB or more recommended
• Hard disk: at least 32 GB
• Network: Gigabit Ethernet adapter

Installation and activation

1. Download the installation file (ISO) via the link in our email.
2. Create a bootable USB stick or mount the ISO in the hypervisor or via the server’s remote management.
3. Choose the edition (with or without Desktop Experience) and install Windows Server.
4. Activate with the product key supplied and set up roles such as Active Directory, file server or Hyper-V.

Frequently asked questions

How many processors does the licence cover?

One licence covers up to two physical processors of a server.

Are CALs included?

No. You will find client access licences under Windows Server 2012 CAL.

How is the server activated?

With the product key you receive by email after purchase. Our support team will help with any questions about activation.

Will I receive an invoice?

Yes, you receive a proper invoice with VAT shown for every order, with your company address on request.

May I run the server virtually?

Yes. The licence applies to the physical host; depending on the edition, you may run virtual Windows Server instances on it.

Do I need additional licences for Remote Desktop?

Yes. For Remote Desktop sessions you need RDS CALs in addition to the Windows Server CALs.

Delivery, invoice and support

• Delivery by e-mail: you will usually receive the product key, download link and installation guide within 5 to 30 minutes of payment (daily 09:00–21:00 CET). More under Shipping & payment.
• Invoice: every order comes with a proper invoice, with your company address on request.
• Origin of the licence: we source our licences from distributors and wholesalers in Europe. We explain exactly how this works on the page Buying legal software.
• Support: if you have questions about installation or activation, we help by e-mail (Mon–Sun 09:00–21:00 CET), phone (Mon–Fri 09:00–14:00 CET), live chat or remote support with TeamViewer.

Our goodwill promise

If the server version or edition you ordered is ever no longer available, we will supply the next higher version or edition with the same number of cores at no extra charge. You never pay more than the price at which you ordered.