Windows Server

Windows Server CALs: which type do you need?

A Windows Server license covers the server itself — anything that connects to it (a user or a device) needs a separate Client Access License. There are two types:

• User CAL — licenses one person, who can then connect from any number of devices. Best when you have more devices than users.
• Device CAL — licenses one device, which any number of people can then use to connect. Best when you have more users than devices, such as a shared workstation.

Not sure which fits your setup? See Windows Server User CAL vs Device CAL: How to Choose for the full decision guide, including whether you can mix both types on the same server.

What a Windows Server CAL does and doesn’t cover

A Windows Server CAL covers access to core server functions — file storage, printing, and similar services. It’s separate from Remote Desktop Services (RDS) CALs, which are required specifically for users or devices connecting through Remote Desktop, and from SQL Server CALs, which license access to SQL Server rather than Windows Server itself. If you need remote desktop access licensing, see RDS CALs instead.

One exception applies across the board: Windows Server Essentials editions include access rights for up to 25 users and 50 devices in the license itself, so no separate CAL purchase is needed there.

Frequently asked questions

Do CALs expire or need renewing?
No — a Windows Server CAL is a one-time purchase tied to the user or device it’s assigned to, not a subscription.

Does the CAL need to match my Windows Server version exactly?
CALs for a given version are backward-compatible with older Windows Server versions, so a current CAL also covers access to earlier servers on your network.

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

Looking for the server license itself rather than the CAL? See Windows Server licenses.