Author Archives: Louise Ulrick

Windows Server 2016: Availability Date and Branches

There’s more news from Microsoft on Windows Server 2016 with, first of all, confirmation that it will be on the October 2016 price list.

Next, we learn that there will be two branches: Long Term Servicing Branch (LTSB) and the Current Branch for Business (CBB). Customers will opt into one of these branches depending on the installation option they choose: Server with Desktop Experience and Server Core will be on LTSB, and Nano Server will be on CBB.

It’s expected that there will be two or three updates per year for Nano Server and there will be a requirement to have Software Assurance for this option.

Read the full article from Microsoft here: http://bit.ly/29FHtrB.

Azure Virtual Machines and RDS

Wording added to the July 2013 PUR (page 88) about using Remote Desktop Services with Windows Azure Virtual Machines (although expect more changes next year):

  • RDS Subscriber Access Licences purchased through SPLA MAY be used to deliver graphical user interface functionality on Windows Azure virtual machines
  • RDS CALs purchased through Volume Licensing programs may NOT be used with Windows Azure virtual machines
  • Virtual Desktop Infrastructure functionality may NOT be used on Windows Azure virtual machines

Windows 8.1 Enterprise RTM

Microsoft’s Erwin Visser confirms that Windows 8.1 Enterprise RTM is available to VL customers (via TechNet). Key licensing takeaways: Windows 8 Pro VL customers will be licensed for Windows 8.1 Pro even with expired SA, Windows 8 Enterprise VL customers must have active SA for rights to Windows 8.1 Enterprise, Windows 8.1 Pro and Enterprise available through VLSC on 18 October 2013, and both are on the November price list from 1 November 2013. bit.ly/14lXwz0

SCE Bluffers’ Guide Test

The new Server and Cloud Enrolment – will YOU come top of the class? Take our Introductory level test and find out whether you get a passing grade! http://bit.ly/184cxXB

Directions On Microsoft Windows Server Article

A useful article from Directions on Microsoft covering Windows Server 2012 R2 Pricing and Licensing: http://bit.ly/16xk5BF