Windows Server 2016 Essentials vs Server 2012 R2: How do they Differ? Do note that Windows Server 2016 does not have a Foundation Edition. If you have been on the foundation edition on previous versions of Windows Server, you can directly upgrade to Windows Server 2016 Essentials. Essentials –The bare minimum operating system is meant a small enterprise of 20 to 25 users.It is a robust operating system for the general purpose functionality. Standard – If you are someone looking for limited virtualization, this can be your best bet.The features available include Shielded Virtual Machines along with software-defined storage and networking. Datacentre – This the version meant for the customers who are looking for unlimited virtualization.Windows Server 2016 is available in three versions – It has added new layers of security and is compatible with Microsoft Azure. The latest version of Windows Server, the Windows Server 2016 is a Cloud Ready Operating System. How does it differ? Windows Server 2016 Essentials vs Server 2012 R2? We will compare the two versions of Windows server in the following paragraphs. It is available in three separate editions, and the Windows Server 2016 Essentials is one of the options meant for small enterprises. The latest iteration of the server OS is Windows Server 2016. It helps you in enterprise-level management, data storage, applications, and other requirements. Windows Server 2016 refers to a group of Operating Systems from Microsoft that offers you an enterprise level functionality.

Windows 2016 essentials iso