New functions and features of Windows Server 2019 at a glance

Device and User CALs for Windows Server 2019 allow the use of many improvements as well as a number of additions and important new functions, which in particular better support virtualizations. As with Windows 10, express updates shorten installation times and also reduce the number of necessary reboots.

In addition, SDN (Software Defined Networking) for Windows Server 2019 enables not only the central configuration of physical network devices such as routers and switches, but also of virtual network devices such as gateways, as well as their dynamic management. With SDN, Windows Server 2019 also offers, in addition to firewall monitoring, the possibility of peering two networks to connect them almost seamlessly. The Datagram Transport Layer Security (DTLS) feature is available for the secure encryption of virtual networks with Encrypted Networks.

Azure Services for Windows Server 2019

The new integrated hybrid features are especially designed to further integrate Microsoft Azure services and make them easier to use. The close cooperation between Windows Server and Microsoft Azure allows easy data synchronization and the use of additional services such as Azure Update Management, Azure Backup for easy data backup and Azure Site Recovery. With the integrated Azure network adapter, a local server can be connected to a virtual Azure network in the Azure Cloud.

The Storage Migration Assistant not only facilitates the switch to Windows Server 2019, but also the server migration including data into the cloud. Azure File Sync acts as a possible storage location.

In addition, new features of the Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI) are ideally suited for server and desktop virtualization. HCI platforms are not only easy to implement, but also to manage and scale. HCI in Windows Server 2019 thus reduces the complexity and thus also the provision of IT infrastructures.

Further advantages with Windows Server 2019

Container services are becoming increasingly important in the virtualisation and provisioning of applications. For this purpose, Windows Server 2019 offers extended possibilities especially for Kubernet and Linux. The improved integration of Linux is achieved with shielded VMs, as well as the option to manage a Linux server with Linux commands via the Windows. Linux distributions have also been integrated into the Windows installation.

Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) has also been enhanced to protect sensitive data and detect attacks early on.

Linux and support in Windows Server 2019

Windows Server Platform 2019 now also offers more comprehensive support for containers or cubernets. Linux and Windows can be used in parallel and managed with Kubernetes, which has been enhanced with new features such as Container Networking. In addition, individual container images have also been improved. The container image "windows" is also new, it has a larger range of functions than the previous images.

Storage Spaces Direct and Storage Replica for Windows Server 2019

Depending on the version,Windows Server 2019 offers various storage functions for device and user CALs. CALs for the Datacenter Edition contain all the relevant functions, such as Storage Spaces Direct, while the Standard CAL contains Storage Replica.

Storage Replica in Windows Server 2019 not only prevents data loss at file system level, but also minimizes downtime with Disaster Preparedness. For data replication, not only synchronous but also asynchronous replication by the storage replica is available: While in synchronous replication, storage replica reflects data to a physical location with fail-safe volumes, in asynchronous replication this is done using network links with a higher latency between locations.

With Storage Spaces Direct in the data center version, local data storage of servers can be combined into a virtual cluster. The nodes in a cluster have different physical disks, the communication between the individual disks or systems is done with the SMB protocol.

In addition, S2D simplifies the implementation and administration of software defined storage systems (SDS) and enables the creation of scalable, highly available storage systems.

Improved security in Windows Server 2019

The theft of sensitive data and unauthorized access to it is still one of the most common threats to companies. To prevent this, Windows Server 2019 now includes improved tools to prevent this from happening. These include the Domain Controller and Windows Defender, which has been enhanced with new features, such as Exploit Guard, to monitor access to the network and the documents and folders on it. Azure AD security features such as Azure AD Banned Passwords and Azure AD Password Protection also protect the local Active Directory.

Of particular note is Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP): With improved protection mechanisms and encryption of both data and file servers, Windows Server 2019 offers even more comprehensive protection against rootkits and zero-day attacks.

Shielded Virtual Machines (Shielded VM) also enable the provision and strong protection of highly secure virtualization infrastructures. Shielded VM offers comprehensive functions to shield a virtual server and its critical data and to prevent unauthorized persons or attackers from accessing or stealing it. With Shielded VM in Windows Server 2019, all data that is stored in a public cloud is protected.

Buy CALs for the 2019 Server Edition from Wiresoft

The Microsoft license system offers CALs (Client Access License) for the use of the Standard or Datacenter Edition of Server 2019. In this licensing model, the permission to use (license) a software is separate from its implementation. In order to use the services and functions of Microsoft Server 2019, a corresponding number of CALs is therefore required.

A CAL only grants access to Windows Server 2019 to authorized users or devices, denying access to the server to third parties who do not have the appropriate access license - this also means greater security and protects sensitive data from employees of your own company as well as from strangers.

User CALs and Device CALs for Server 2019 - differences

The Client Access License from Microsoft offers various advantages: The CAL licensing allows a flexible and demand-oriented user rights management. Device CALs and user CALs can also be combined. A CAL for Windows Server 2019 can also be used to access an older server edition - but not vice versa.

Wiresoft offers both Client Access Licenses for the 2019 Standard and Datacenter server versions: User CALs and Device CALs or user and device related licenses. Which type of license is most suitable in each individual case depends on a number of factors, which are briefly explained below.

Windows Server User CAL

A Microsoft User CAL for the Windows Server only authorizes one specific user to access it. The User CAL is therefore not bound to a specific device. This offers the advantage that it grants access to the server either from the PC at the workplace in the company OR with another end device that is used, for example, on the road (laptop or tablet) or in the home office. User CALs thus make the use of Windows Server 2019 particularly flexible and mobile.

Windows Server Device CAL

The Microsoft Device CAL is a device-related license form. This means that only a single device receives access rights for the server. This can be, for example, a locally used PC at the company site OR also a laptop or tablet. With Device CAL, the advantage is that any user who is allowed to use this licensed PC etc. can also access the server.

Which type of license - Device CAL or User CAL - or combination of the two types of CAL is the more practical for a company, naturally also depends on the actual structuring of the workstations. In addition to the number of employees, the main way in which Windows Server 2019 is used in companies is therefore also important:

If employees access the Windows server mainly from their workplace at the company location, a Device CAL is more suitable. If, on the other hand, employees mainly use different devices or workstations - in the company, but also in the home office, etc. - to access the server, a User CAL better reflects the usage requirements.

Buy CALs for Windows Server 2019 at Wiresoft

Wiresoft offers cost-effective device and user CALs for Windows Server 2019 for purchase. This allows you to flexibly cover or supplement your individual needs for both types of licenses. Just contact us if you have any questions about your licensing of Microsoft Server 2019. We will be happy to advise you on your individual, inexpensive CAL combination.

All Microsoft license products available from Wiresoft are original European device or user CALs. You profit from the price advantage of unused software licenses, which were purchased by Wiresoft from other companies and checked for authenticity. Many satisfied customers have confirmed the advantages of buying a license from Wiresoft. For further information about our CAL offer for Windows Server 2019 please contact us.