Buy Remote Desktop Services CALs – Access licences for Windows Server Remote Desktop
Remote Desktop Services CALs (RDS CALs) are access licences required to enable users or devices to access a Windows Server via Remote Desktop. They are a key component of Microsoft server licensing and enable organisations to operate Remote Desktop Services within their IT infrastructure in full compliance with the law.
Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is a feature of Windows Server that allows multiple users to access a server simultaneously and use applications, desktops or business software on it. This technology is frequently used in organisations to provide centralised working environments.
Whilst the Windows Server licence permits the operation of the server operating system, Remote Desktop CALs govern users’ access to the server via Remote Desktop. Companies therefore require additional RDS CALs, in addition to the Windows Server licence and the corresponding Windows Server CALs, if employees access the server via Remote Desktop.
Typical use cases for Remote Desktop Services include, for example:
- Access to business software via Remote Desktop
- Working on centrally deployed desktops
- Using applications on a terminal server
- Accessing internal programmes whilst working from home
- Centralised provision of IT workstations
By using Remote Desktop Services, organisations can efficiently manage their IT infrastructure and centrally provision applications on a server.
Why are RDS CALs required?
Remote Desktop Services enable multiple users to work on a Windows Server simultaneously. Without the appropriate access licences, this use is not permitted under licensing law.
Microsoft therefore requires a Remote Desktop CAL for every user or device that accesses a server via Remote Desktop.
Difference between Windows Server CALs and RDS CALs
Remote Desktop CALs are often confused with Windows Server CALs. However, the two licence types serve different purposes.
Windows Server CAL
This access licence generally allows users or devices to access services on a Windows Server, such as file shares or Active Directory.
Remote Desktop Services CAL
This licence is also required if users start a session on the server via Remote Desktop and use applications or desktops there.
In many IT infrastructures, therefore, both types of licence are required.
The following licences are generally required for a Remote Desktop connection:
- Windows Server licence
- Windows Server CAL
- Remote Desktop Services CAL
Types of Remote Desktop Services CALs
Microsoft offers two different types of RDS access licences.
Remote Desktop User CAL
A User CAL is assigned to a specific user. This user may access the Remote Desktop Server from multiple devices.
This type of licence is particularly suitable for modern working environments where staff use a variety of devices, such as desktop PCs, laptops or mobile devices.
Remote Desktop Device CAL
A Device CAL is assigned to a specific device. Any user who uses this device is permitted to access the Remote Desktop Server via it.
This variant is frequently used in environments where several employees share the same computer, for example in manufacturing facilities or in shift-based operations.
Remote Desktop CAL Versions
Remote Desktop CALs are version-specific and must always match the version of Windows Server being used.
Typical versions include, for example:
- Remote Desktop CAL 2019
- Remote Desktop CAL 2022
- Remote Desktop CAL 2025
As a general rule, newer CAL versions can usually also be used with older versions of Windows Server, whilst older CALs are not valid for newer server versions.
Typical uses of Remote Desktop Services
Remote Desktop Services are used in many organisations to provide centralised provision of applications and work environments.
- Terminal servers for business software: Many organisations operate a central terminal server on which applications are installed. Staff access these programmes via Remote Desktop.
- Remote workstations and home working: Remote Desktop Services enable staff to access their work environment from various locations. This solution provides secure access to business applications, particularly when working from home.
- Centralised IT infrastructure: By centrally provisioning applications and desktops, organisations can manage their IT systems more easily and carry out updates centrally on the server.
Buy Remote Desktop Services CAL licences from LizenzDeals24
At LizenzDeals24, businesses can obtain genuine Microsoft Remote Desktop Services licences for various versions of Windows Server. Our offering is aimed in particular at businesses, IT service providers and organisations wishing to licence their Remote Desktop infrastructure correctly.
As a provider of business software, we support our customers not only in purchasing the appropriate access licences, but also with any queries regarding Microsoft licensing, installation and activation.
Your benefits at LizenzDeals24:
- genuine access licences
- fast delivery by email
- transparent licensing models for businesses
- technical support for any questions regarding activation
If you’re unsure which Remote Desktop CAL variant is suitable for your environment, we’ll be happy to help you select the right access licences for your Remote Desktop infrastructure.
