What Are Exchange Server 2016 Licenses?
Exchange Server 2016 Licenses allow businesses to deploy Microsoft Exchange Server 2016 as an on-premises messaging platform. Exchange 2016 was built with a simplified architecture and improved security compared to earlier versions, making it a popular choice for organizations that want modern email functionality while keeping full control over their data.
This category covers core Exchange Server licensing options, including environments upgrading from older systems such as Exchange Server 2013 Licenses, as well as new installations requiring long-term stability and predictable costs.
Exchange Server 2016 Editions Explained
Microsoft Exchange Server 2016 is available in two editions, each designed for different organizational needs and workloads.
Exchange Server 2016 Standard
Microsoft Exchange Server 2016 Standard is ideal for small to medium-sized organizations. It supports up to five mailbox databases per server and includes all essential email, calendar, and contact management features.
Recommended for:
- Small and mid-sized businesses
- Organizations with straightforward email needs
- Companies replacing Exchange 2010 or 2013
Exchange Server 2016 Enterprise
Microsoft Exchange Server 2016 Enterprise is designed for larger organizations that require advanced scalability. It supports up to 100 mailbox databases per server and is suited for complex or high-availability environments.
Recommended for:
- Enterprises with many mailboxes
- High-availability or multi-database setups
- Organizations with advanced compliance requirements
How to Choose the Right Exchange Server 2016 License
Number of Mailboxes and Databases
If your organization has a limited number of mailboxes and simple storage needs, the Standard edition is usually sufficient. Enterprise edition becomes necessary when you need many mailbox databases or advanced data handling.
Upgrade vs New Deployment
Exchange Server 2016 is commonly chosen by organizations upgrading from Exchange 2010 or 2013 to improve performance and security without adopting cloud services.
On-Premises Control
Many businesses choose Exchange 2016 because it allows full control over email data, security policies, and infrastructure, which is essential for compliance-driven industries.
OEM vs Retail Exchange Server 2016 Licenses
Retail (ESD / Volume) Licenses
Retail licenses can be reassigned to new hardware if you replace or upgrade your server. This makes them suitable for businesses planning future infrastructure changes.
OEM Licenses
OEM licenses are locked to the original server hardware and cannot be transferred. They may have a lower upfront cost but offer less long-term flexibility.
For most professional environments, Retail Exchange Server 2016 licenses are the recommended option.
Installation and Activation Overview
Deploying Exchange Server 2016 typically involves the following steps:
- Prepare the Windows Server environment and Active Directory.
- Install required system components and prerequisites.
- Run the Exchange Server 2016 setup.
- Activate the license using the product key.
- Configure mailboxes, connectors, and security settings.
Once installed and activated, Exchange Server 2016 provides centralized control over business email and communication.
Common Business Use Cases
- On-premises corporate email hosting
- Upgrading from Exchange 2010 or 2013
- Organizations avoiding recurring cloud subscriptions
- Businesses with strict data residency requirements
- Stable IT environments requiring predictable costs
Why Buy Exchange Server 2016 Licenses from Digital License?
Digital License is a trusted provider of genuine Microsoft software. As an official Microsoft Partner, we supply authentic Exchange Server licenses with full compliance and transparency. Microsoft Partner ID : 7033487. Customers benefit from fast digital delivery, clear activation instructions, and professional support.
Buying from Digital License ensures your Exchange Server 2016 environment remains legitimate, secure, and fully supported.