Operating Systems
19 results
Operating Systems
19 results
Purchase operating system licences for business computers, workstations, and servers. Available options include Windows desktop and server editions, Linux distributions with support, and virtualisation-ready OS licences. Retail, OEM, and volume licensing available for IT procurement and deployment projects. Suitable for IT teams refreshing fleets, building servers, and standardising user environments across desktops, laptops, and virtual machines, with attention to lifecycle dates, upgrade paths, and
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Operating Systems for business PCs, workstations, servers and virtualised infrastructure
The operating system is the foundation of every computing device. Selecting and correctly licensing operating systems is a critical function for IT procurement teams. This category covers desktop and server operating systems for businesses, including Windows editions, server operating systems, and supported Linux distributions.
Windows desktop operating systems
Windows 10 and Windows 11 are the standard desktop operating systems for business environments. Pro and Enterprise editions add domain join, BitLocker encryption, remote desktop, and group policy management features essential for managed IT environments. Volume licensing ensures compliance across large deployments.
Windows Server operating systems
Windows Server provides the foundation for file sharing, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, Hyper-V virtualisation, and other critical infrastructure services. Current versions include Windows Server 2022 and 2025. Correct CAL licensing is required for all users and devices accessing server roles.
Linux operating systems with commercial support
Red Hat Enterprise Linux, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server, and Ubuntu Server LTS are widely used in enterprise environments where certified support, security patches, and compatibility guarantees are required. Subscription licences include technical support and update channels.
OEM and volume licensing options
OEM operating system licences are bundled with new hardware at lower cost but are non-transferable. Retail licences offer flexibility for hardware upgrades. Volume licensing programmes such as Microsoft Open Value and Microsoft EA provide the best terms for organisations deploying ten or more licences.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Windows Pro and Windows Enterprise?
- Windows Enterprise includes all Pro features plus additional security and management capabilities such as DirectAccess, AppLocker, Credential Guard, and Windows Defender Application Control. Enterprise is typically acquired through volume licensing programmes.
- Do I need Windows Server CALs if I use Microsoft 365?
- Microsoft 365 licences include access rights to certain server services including Exchange Online and SharePoint Online, but do not replace on-premises Windows Server CALs if you also run local server roles.
- Can Windows operating systems be used on virtual machines?
- Yes. Windows Pro and Enterprise licences support running on virtual machines. Windows Server Datacenter edition includes unlimited virtualisation rights for the licensed physical host.
- What Linux distribution is best for enterprise server use?
- Red Hat Enterprise Linux and SUSE Linux Enterprise Server are the leading choices for mission-critical enterprise workloads due to their long support cycles, certified hardware support, and extensive ISV software compatibility.
- How do I ensure OS licence compliance across a large deployment?
- Use a volume licensing programme with a centralised licence management portal. Tools such as Microsoft VLSC and third-party software asset management solutions provide visibility into licence usage and compliance status.