Software Licensing

Software Type	Licensing Model	Cost Range (Annual)	Notes
Windows Server	Per core + CALs	₹50,000-₹5,00,000	Client Access Licenses required
Red Hat Enterprise Linux	Per socket + subscription	₹30,000-₹3,00,000	Includes support and updates
VMware vSphere	Per CPU + subscription	₹1,00,000-₹10,00,000	Different editions available
cPanel/WHM	Per server	₹15,000-₹50,000	Annual subscription

Legal Requirements in India

1. Business Registration:

• Private Limited Company (Recommended for data centers)
• LLP (For smaller operations)
• Registration with Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA)
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
• Director Identification Number (DIN)

2. GST Registration:

• Mandatory for services over ₹20 lakhs annual turnover
• Input tax credit available on purchases
• Monthly/quarterly returns filing
• Separate registration needed in each state of operation

3. ISP License (If providing internet):

• Category A - National level license
• Category B - State level license
• Security compliance requirements
• Bank guarantee and license fee

Data Protection Compliance

Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023:

• Data Fiduciary Obligations: Responsible for data processing
• Consent Management: Explicit consent required
• Data Localization: Certain data must be stored in India
• Data Protection Officer: Mandatory for large data fiduciaries

Other Relevant Laws:

• IT Act, 2000: Reasonable security practices
• RBI Guidelines: For payment data storage
• SEBI Regulations: For financial data centers
• Telecom Regulations: For connectivity providers