The short answer to this is ‘Yes’.
To be eligible for a Windows Enterprise Upgrade (e.g. Windows E3/E5) the computer must be licensed with a ‘Qualified Operating System’
The important point to remember is that Windows Enterprise is an upgrade license. Going back before cloud licensing, Software Assurance was purchased to obtain the Enterprise license for Windows when added to an existing Pro License. With Windows E3/E5 the scenario is still the same.
If you haven’t purchased Windows Pro with your device (note Windows Home is not an option) then you will have to purchase a full Windows Professional License for each device that requires it. This isn’t as straight forward as it seems as these licenses are not available through the usual reseller channels. The two options seems to be purchasing a boxed product for each device or through the Microsoft Store.
Please ensure your procurement team is aware of this compliance requirement when purchasing new computers.
If you have any questions regarding software licensing then please contact The SAM Club for an informal chat at info@thesamclub.co.uk
