RDS

What an RDS CAL is, and why it’s separate

A standard Windows Server CAL licenses basic access to the server — file storage, printing, directory services. It does not cover Remote Desktop Services. Anyone connecting through Remote Desktop — a session-based remote desktop or a virtual desktop — needs an RDS CAL on top of their standard CAL, not instead of it. Both are required together for RDS access; neither substitutes for the other.

User or Device

• RDS User CAL — licenses one person, who can then connect remotely from any number of devices.
• RDS Device CAL — licenses one device, which any number of people can then use to connect remotely — typical for a shared kiosk or terminal.

The same logic as standard CALs applies: more devices than users points to User CALs, more users than devices points to Device CALs. See Windows Server User CAL vs Device CAL: How to Choose for the full decision guide.

The version rule

An RDS CAL must be the same version as the server it connects to, or newer — never older. A newer RDS CAL covers older servers; an older one cannot license access to a newer server. If you’re planning a server upgrade soon, buying RDS CALs at the newer version now avoids repurchasing them later.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a standard CAL as well as an RDS CAL?
Yes — RDS CALs are additional, not a replacement for the base Windows Server CAL every connecting user or device already needs.

Can I mix User and Device RDS CALs on the same deployment?
Yes, Microsoft allows mixing CAL types within the same environment, matched to how each connection is actually used.

How is the license delivered?
By email, typically within minutes of payment confirmation.

Browse the editions below, or see Windows Server CALs if you need the base CAL as well.