Overview
When deploying a new server, you have the option to install a Windows operating system (OS). To provide flexibility and accommodate a variety of licensing needs, we offer Windows OS under a BYOL (Bring Your Own License) model. This means that while we provide the option to install Windows on your server, the responsibility for providing, managing, and activating a valid Windows license lies entirely with you, the customer.
What is BYOL? BYOL stands for Bring Your Own License. Under this model, we allow you to use your own legally obtained Windows license for the operating system on your VPS or dedicated server. This approach offers flexibility, particularly if you already have an existing Windows Server license or prefer to manage your licenses independently.
How Does It Work?
- Server Deployment When you deploy a new server through our platform, you can select Windows as your desired operating system. We provide the stock Windows Server image, which starts in an unactivated or trial state.
- License Activation Upon deployment, Windows will typically have a 180-day evaluation period. During this time, you are responsible for providing and activating a valid product key if you wish to continue using Windows beyond the trial period.
- Supported Licenses
- Volume Licenses with Active Software Assurance (SA) or Windows Server Subscription: Under Microsoft's updated "Flexible Virtualization Benefit" rules (effective October 2022), these license types can typically be used on third-party hosted (including VPS) environments.
- Microsoft Open License / Open Value (with SA)
- Other Volume Licensing Programs (with SA or a subscription)
- Retail or OEM: In most cases, standard retail or OEM licenses are not valid for multi-tenant hosting scenarios and may be restricted to specific hardware.
Important: Always ensure the license you plan to use is eligible for your specific deployment scenario (VPS vs. dedicated server) and meets Microsoft's latest licensing terms.
- Activation Process After deploying your server, enter your license key through the Windows interface or via command-line tools. If you encounter any issues (invalid keys, activation errors, etc.), consult Microsoft's support resources or contact your license provider.
Important Considerations
- Legal Compliance You are responsible for ensuring the license you provide is legitimate and fully compliant with Microsoft's licensing terms. Using Windows beyond the 180-day trial without valid activation may result in reduced OS functionality and violations of Microsoft's licensing rules.
- No Windows License Included We do not provide or sell Windows licenses as part of this service. If you do not have a valid Windows Server license (including the necessary Software Assurance or subscription rights for VPS hosting), you will need to obtain one from Microsoft or an authorized reseller.
- Support for License Activation While we're happy to assist with basic guidance on how to enter and activate your license key, any issues directly related to the license itself should be addressed with Microsoft or your license vendor.
- Enforcement and Abuse Reporting We do not have direct access to your servers and therefore cannot monitor your license usage. However, if we become aware of any non-compliance or abuse of licensing terms, we reserve the right to terminate service to maintain regulatory compliance and protect our business.
Why Choose BYOL?
- Cost Savings: If you already have a valid Windows Server license (with Software Assurance or subscription rights), BYOL allows you to avoid purchasing another license.
- Flexibility: Manage your licenses independently, including possible transfers between servers, provided Microsoft's terms allow it.
- Compliance: Ensuring you use a valid license helps maintain compliance with software regulations, avoiding potential legal issues or service interruptions.
Need Help? If you have any questions about using the BYOL model for your Windows OS installation or need assistance with the deployment process, please feel free to contact our support team. You can also refer to our other knowledge base articles for more detailed guidance.