What is the difference between Microsoft Windows Server 2022 Standard and Datacenter? What are its features?

About Windows Server 2022 datacenter and standard features and differences.

Microsoft Windows Server 2022 comes in two main editions: Standard and Datacenter. Both editions share many features but differ in terms of licensing and capabilities, making them suitable for different types of environments. Here's a comparison of the two editions:

Licensing:

Standard Edition: Licenses are based on the number of cores in the server, with each license covering up to 16 cores.

Datacenter Edition: Licenses are also based on the number of cores, but each license covers an unlimited number of virtual machines (VMs) on the licensed server.

Virtualization:

Standard Edition: Allows for two virtual instances (VMs or containers) when all physical cores on the server are licensed.

Datacenter Edition: Provides unlimited virtual instances, allowing for greater flexibility in virtualized environments.

Storage Migration Service:

Both editions include the Storage Migration Service, which simplifies the process of migrating servers and data to newer storage infrastructure.

Azure Hybrid Use Benefit:

Both editions allow customers with Software Assurance to use their on-premises Windows Server licenses with Software Assurance to license Windows Server virtual machines in Azure at a reduced cost.

Security Features:

Both editions include Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP), which helps protect servers from emerging threats.

Both editions also include features like Shielded Virtual Machines, which helps protect VMs from compromised or malicious administrators.

Networking Features:

Both editions include features like the Software Defined Networking (SDN) stack, which provides greater flexibility and control over networking configurations.

Application Platform:

Both editions support the latest application platforms, including .NET 6 Core.

Windows Server 2022 Standard is suitable for environments that require a lower number of virtual instances and can benefit from the core-based licensing model.

On the other hand, Windows Server 2022 Datacenter is ideal for highly virtualized environments that require unlimited virtual instances and can benefit from the simplified licensing for virtualized environments.