Microsoft has introduced new licensing options with the release of its new business solution, Windows Essential Business Server 2008, to address midsized customer’s business needs. This is part of a broader effort to make software licensing more consistent, predictable, and flexible for our customers.
How is Windows Essential Business Server 2008 licensing consistent with other server solution products?
Server License – Client Access License (CAL) Model
Microsoft offers an affordable licensing model to allow for complete scalability of your cost in relation to your usage. Customers purchase a server license for the Windows Essential Business Server 2008 Edition of server product they will use and purchase CALs for users or devices accessing the Essential Business Server network. This is consistent with the licensing terms for Windows Small Business Server 2008 (our small business solution).
What's New in Licensing that applies to Windows Essential Business Server 2008?
Two types of CALs
In order to allow for the most flexibility for our customers, Microsoft is introducing two CAL Suites for Windows Essential Business Server (EBS) 2008:
EBS 2008 CAL Suite: For each user or device accessing the EBS network
EBS 2008 CAL Suite for Premium: For only those users or devices accessing the premium features of EBS 2008 Premium Edition
More choice in CAL quantity
In addition to offering two CAL Suites, Microsoft is also offering various CAL quantities to suit your specific needs:
EBS 2008 CAL Suite: Available in 1, 5, 20 and 50 pack quantities for either User or Device
EBS 2008 CAL Suite for Premium Users or Devices: Available in 1, 5 20 and 50 pack quantities for either User or Device
Pricing
Find Windows Essential Business Server 2008 pricing information.
Microsoft Software Assurance
We recommend that you purchase Software Assurance for your servers and CALs in order to use the latest Windows Essential Business Server release, and to take advantage of the many additional benefits of the Microsoft Software Assurance program.
For licensing advice on configuring products, programs, and pricing options visit the Microsoft Product Licensing Advisor.