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Windows VPS: versions, licences and resources
People choose Windows on a virtual server not out of love for the system, but because the task can't be done without it: the program exists only for Windows, a familiar graphical interface is needed, or the server has to become part of an Active Directory infrastructure. In every other case Linux will be cheaper and need fewer resources.
Which Windows Server version to choose
Hosts usually offer several editions, and the difference between them is more than cosmetic:
- Windows Server 2016 — Microsoft's extended support ends in January 2027. It only makes sense for old software that won't run on newer versions.
- Windows Server 2019 — a proven option for accounting software and trading terminals, supported until January 2029.
- Windows Server 2022 — a sensible default: supported until October 2031, with modern TLS and protocol stack.
- Windows Server 2025 — the newest version with the longest support, but its resource requirements are higher, and compatibility with older programs is worth checking in advance.
Desktop Windows 10 and 11 also turn up on VPS plans. Keep in mind that Microsoft's licensing terms for hosting providers are designed for server versions, so legally, client Windows on a rented server is not so clear-cut.
Licence: what's included in the plan
Windows is paid software, and the host pays Microsoft for every machine, so the same server almost always costs more with Windows than with Linux. Some hosts include the licence in the plan price, others add it as an option when you order. When comparing plans, look at the total cost with the licence. A separate expense is RDS CAL client licences: without them only two administrators can connect to the server at the same time. More on multi-user work is on the RDP server page.
Resources: Windows is hungrier than Linux
A Linux server without a GUI runs on 512 MB of memory. Windows Server with the desktop takes about 1.5–2 GB right after boot, plus background updates, antivirus and indexing. Practical guidelines:
- 2 GB RAM — the absolute minimum for one lightweight program; it will be cramped;
- 4 GB — comfortable for one user and a couple of always-running applications;
- 8 GB or more — for several users, accounting systems or SQL Server.
Plan for a disk of 40–50 GB or more: the system itself with accumulated updates takes 20–30 GB. Server Core mode without the graphical shell saves memory, but it suits only those who administer the server through PowerShell.
What people use a Windows VPS for
- a remote workstation with programs running around the clock;
- MetaTrader and QUIK trading terminals — there's a dedicated selection, VPS for Forex;
- accounting and business management systems;
- applications on .NET Framework, IIS and MS SQL;
- automation programs and software that needs a desktop.
If your budget is tight, start with the selection of cheap Windows VPS. Prices are shown in your currency everywhere, and the "Payment" column shows whether the host accepts cards, PayPal or cryptocurrency.