When Windows Server 2016 still makes sense
Windows Server 2016 was the first server version with the core-based licensing model and has been in use at many companies for years. A new 2016 licence makes the most sense today when an existing environment is to be extended with an identical version or when an application explicitly requires this version.
Anyone without such a dependency scenario should opt for a newer version. Windows Server 2016 is in an advanced phase of its lifecycle, which argues against the version when making a new investment.
What to consider before buying
- Support lifecycle. Windows Server 2016 is considerably closer to the end of its lifecycle than the newer versions. This is a significant factor when making a new investment.
- Existing-environment dependency as the main reason. Useful almost only for extending an existing 2016 environment or to meet an application requirement.
- Plan a migration perspective. Anyone still running 2016 should prepare a migration strategy to a newer version in parallel.
- Identical licensing. 2016 is also licensed on a core basis, with CALs for access.