Windows Server 2012 R2 License Keys

Windows Server 2012 R2 Standard and Datacenter licence keys for legacy systems that cannot be upgraded. Microsoft support for Windows Server 2012 R2 has fully ended, including paid Extended Security Updates. For new or internet-facing servers, choose a supported version instead.

Windows Server 2012 R2 is out of support

Extended support for Windows Server 2012 R2 ended on 11 October 2023, and the final year of paid Extended Security Updates ended on 14 October 2026. Microsoft no longer releases security fixes for it. Only buy a 2012 R2 licence if you need to keep an isolated legacy system running, for example machinery control software or an old application that cannot be moved.

Supported alternatives

How Windows Server 2012 R2 is licensed

Unlike newer versions, Windows Server 2012 R2 is licensed per processor, not per core. Each licence covers up to two physical processors in one server. Windows Server 2012 R2 Standard allows two virtual machines per licensed server; Windows Server 2012 R2 Datacenter allows unlimited virtual machines. Users or devices connecting to the server still need Windows Server CALs.

Windows Server 2012 R2 FAQ

Is Windows Server 2012 R2 still supported?

No. Extended support ended in October 2023 and the last Extended Security Updates ended on 14 October 2026.

Is this Windows Server 2012 or 2012 R2?

The licences on this page are for Windows Server 2012 R2, the final release of the 2012 family.

Which version should I buy instead?

For new servers, Windows Server 2025 has the longest support. Contact us if you need help planning a migration from 2012 R2.