Windows Server Essentials 2019 – Server Licence for Small Organisations (25 users max.)

Windows Server Essentials 2019 is the simplified variant of Windows Server for very small businesses. Two features define it: it is capped at 25 users and 50 devices, and it requires no client access licence (CAL). The users' access right is included in the server licence, which avoids buying and accounting for CALs — a genuine saving in simplicity and budget for an organisation of a few people.

What you get

• A turnkey domain controller — Active Directory deployed by wizard, user accounts and security centralised without complex configuration.
• Structured file sharing — company folders and personal spaces, access rights managed from a simplified interface.
• Backup of the network's machines — each PC is backed up automatically to the server, full restore possible after a hardware failure.
• Secure remote access — a web portal to consult your documents from outside, without setting up a VPN.
• The technical foundation of Windows Server 2019 — same kernel, same security patches, same hardware support as the higher editions.

The limits, stated clearly

Essentials 2019 is the last Essentials edition of this range: Microsoft did not carry it over into the following versions. It does not allow you to run Hyper-V as a virtualisation host in production, is not designed for clustering, and the caps of 25 users / 50 devices are technically enforced. If your headcount is set to grow, migration is to Windows Server Standard — this time with CALs to plan for each user or device.

Installation and activation

The key reaches you by email within 24 hours at most. Install the system from the official Microsoft image, let the wizard configure the domain, then enter the key in the activation settings.

System requirements

64-bit processor, 2 cores recommended, 2 GB of RAM minimum, 160 GB of disk space, Gigabit network card. Extended support until January 2029.

Buy Windows Server Essentials 2019 in Switzerland

CHKEY is a Swiss company based in Lausanne. Prices in CHF, official invoice, support in French by email and live chat. Key sent by email within 24h.