Overview

Rackspace offers a flexible and simplified approach to licensing for OS and database software as part of your infrastructure consumption. This document outlines how customers can procure and manage licenses for:

• Operating Systems: Windows Server, Linux (various distributions)
• Databases: Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle DB
• Other Licensing Services: VMware, bundled licensing

Licensing via Image Deployment (OS & DB)

When deploying a virtual machine (VM) from the Rackspace-provided image library, the image name will clearly indicate the included software. For example:

• Windows Server 2022 + SQL Server 2022 Enterprise
• Linux CentOS 7
• Windows Server 2019 (No SQL)

See an example here:

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Note: For an exhaustive list of image options please refer to the content library within your platform of choice. For more information on how to deploy an image on your specific platform please navigate to that platform’s section within this page.

✅What This Means for You:

• Automatic License Billing: By selecting and deploying an image with bundled software, you are accepting associated license charges for that software.
• No Separate Procurement Required: No manual license registration or request is needed. Rackspace will add the charge automatically to your monthly invoice.
• Licensing Audit Support: These images ensure compliance with Microsoft and Oracle licensing models.

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Note: If you want to check what a particular deployed VM is consuming in terms of 3rd party licenses you can go to the ‘Resources’ UI and click the VM to get next level of detail as seen here:

Host-Based Licensing (Optional)

Rackspace also supports host-based licensing, allowing licenses to be pooled and tied to the physical host instead of each VM.

🔒Important Requirements:

• Pre-enrollment is required via contract or addendum.
• Must be explicitly included in your host sale agreement or added later by contacting your Rackspace Account Executive.
• Automation will detect valid host-based licensing and suppress per-VM license billing accordingly.

If host-based licensing is not detected, per-VM license charges will apply by default. For guidance on when to use either of these consumption models please reach out to your Rackspace Account Executive or submit a ticket on our support portal.

OS and DB License Types Available

VMware and Other Bundled Licensing

Some Rackspace offers—such as VMware-based platforms—include licensing as part of the service cost.

🎯 Key Points:

• No additional licensing steps are required from customers.
• Billing is included in the infrastructure pricing and delivered under the Rackspace Managed Service Provider agreement with VMware as a service to our customers.
• Applies to platforms like SDDC-Business and Enterprise where Rackspace manages the full stack.

Next Steps for Customers

Need Help?

Contact your Rackspace Account Executive or Customer Success Manager for:

• Questions about licensing models
• Updates to your licensing contract
• Adding host-based licensing to your environment