Oracle licensing on Hyper-V can often seem like a maze.
This article will break down the complexities of Oracle licensing on Hyper-V. We’ll walk you through the licensing requirements and answer frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions about your IT infrastructure.
Oracle Licensing on Hyper-V: The Basics
Regarding Oracle licensing on Hyper-V, one key point to remember: Oracle does not permit sub-capacity licensing for Oracle on Hyper-V. This is referenced in their policy document.
What does this mean for you?
- You are required to license every physical core in the Hyper-V cluster where you have Oracle software running.
Oracle Licensing on Hyper-V
Understanding Hyper-V and Its Functionality
Hyper-V is a cutting-edge virtualization technology developed by Microsoft. It enables you to create and operate multiple virtual machines on a single physical host.
Each virtual machine functions as a distinct physical computer with its own operating system, applications, and data.
Oracle Licensing for Hyper-V
Licensing Oracle software on Hyper-V comes with specific requirements. Here’s a simplified breakdown of what you need to know:
- Licensing Basis: Oracle software must be licensed on a per-processor basis.
- Physical Processor Licensing: Every cluster’s physical processor must be licensed, irrespective of its usage status.
Choosing the Right Oracle Licensing Option for Hyper-V
There are several Oracle licensing options available for use on Hyper-V. Here are the most popular ones:
- Processor License: This option suits businesses that want to license Oracle software for a single virtual machine.
- Named User Plus License: This option is suitable for businesses that want to license Oracle software for a specific number of named users.
- Enterprise License Agreement (ULA): This option is suitable for businesses that want to license Oracle software for use across multiple virtual machines and multiple locations. As with this option, you have unlimited license rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oracle Licensing on Hyper-V
Do I need a separate license for each virtual machine running Oracle software on Hyper-V?
No, licensing is calculated per physical core of all the servers in the Hyper-V cluster.
How do I understand my Oracle licensing requirements if I deploy an Oracle Database on Hyper-V?
You count all physical cores of all hosts in the cluster. Then you apply standard Oracle licensing rules.
Can I run Standard Edition on a Hyper-V cluster with more than two processor sockets?
Yes, the cluster limit only applies to the use of SE and RAC.
Conclusion
Oracle licensing on Hyper-V can be a complex topic. Still, with the right information and a clear understanding of your business needs, you can make informed decisions about your IT infrastructure.
Whether you choose a processor license, named user plus license, or ULA, fully understand the licensing requirements and comply with them to avoid any potential legal or financial consequences.
By taking the time to understand Oracle licensing on Hyper-V, you can ensure that your business is running efficiently and effectively. If you need help to understand your Oracle licensing, contact us.
