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I am looking at creating a Docker (set) for applications that run on Windows. So, I need the Docker to have Windows OS. What license do I need for it? Or if I run the Docker on a Windows VM, does it make use of the same license from the Host?

Kangkan
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The container images will use the underlying OS license. Microsoft calls it supplmental license.

You are licensed to use this Supplement in conjunction with the underlying host operating system software (“Host Software”) solely to assist running the containers feature in the Host Software. The Host Software license terms apply to your use of the Supplement. You may not use it if you do not have a license for the Host Software. You may use this Supplement with each validly licensed copy of the Host Software.

Farhad Farahi
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    Thanks. And so, does this mean I can run multiple containers on one host? – Kangkan Mar 03 '17 at 09:00
  • Does it mean that, a user of a publicly published image should get a license for the host OS first before running the image even if the host OS is invisible to him (e.g. hidden by host providers)? – Jijie Chen Apr 08 '18 at 15:26
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    Host providers usually charge you for the licensed machine. So If your host windows is licensed you should be fine. aws documentation: https://aws.amazon.com/windows/resources/licensing/ – Farhad Farahi Apr 09 '18 at 04:17
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    The docker hub pages for ms containers have a copy of the license agreements as stated above. https://hub.docker.com/_/microsoft-windows-base-os-images#license – nelaaro Feb 01 '19 at 14:29
  • Worth noting that for non-HyperV containers, a Windows 10/11 container is for non-production use only. It's in the "Additional Terms" section. – Greg Askew Dec 20 '22 at 13:06