What are access licenses (CAL)?

Access licenses, also known as Client Access Licenses (CAL), are special licenses that allow users to access server services. These licenses are required when multiple users or devices want to access a server to ensure that the software is used legally. CALs are an important part of licensing Microsoft server products and help regulate and manage usage.

What types of access licenses are there?

There are two main types of access licenses: user CALs and device CALs. User CALs are intended for individual users who access the server from various devices. Device CALs, on the other hand, are licensed for a specific device that can be used by multiple users. The choice between these two types depends on your company's specific usage and requirements.

How do I choose the right CAL for my company?

The choice of the right CAL depends on your company's structure and the type of usage. If many employees work from different locations, user CALs may be the better choice. If multiple users share a single device, device CALs are more cost-efficient. It is important to analyze usage patterns to determine the appropriate license type.

What should I consider when licensing?

When licensing access licenses, you should ensure that you correctly estimate the number of licenses needed. It is advisable to consider your company's future development to ensure you do not purchase too many or too few licenses. Additionally, you should carefully read Microsoft's license terms and policies to avoid legal issues.

• User CALs for individual user access
• Device CALs for multiple users on one device
• Flexibility in licensing depending on company structure

How are CALs activated?

Activation of access licenses usually occurs via a license key provided at purchase. After installing the server, you must activate the CALs according to the instructions. It is important to keep all license keys safe, as they may be needed for future installations or audits. Correct activation ensures access to all required functions.

How do CALs differ from other licensing models?

Access licenses differ from other licensing models, such as volume licenses, which offer a larger number of licenses at a reduced price. CALs are specific to accessing server services and usually must be purchased in addition to the server licenses. This structure allows flexible adaptation to the company's needs but can also be more complex to manage.

What system requirements apply to CALs?

Access licenses themselves have no specific system requirements, as they are not software that needs to be installed. However, the servers being accessed must meet the corresponding hardware and software requirements. It is important to ensure that the server environment is stable and powerful to guarantee smooth use of the CALs.