Buy Windows Server CALs – Access licences for Microsoft Windows Server
Windows Server CALs (Client Access Licences) are access licences required to enable users or devices to access services on a Microsoft Windows Server. In corporate networks, they form an important basis for the legally compliant use of server services such as Active Directory, file sharing or network resources.
Whilst the Windows Server licence itself provides the server operating system, CALs govern access by users and devices to that server. Organisations must therefore budget for the relevant access licences in addition to the actual server licence.
Windows Server CALs are used in many IT infrastructures – for example, in networks running Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2022 or Windows Server 2025. They enable staff to securely use applications, files and services on a central server.
Typical use cases for Windows Server CALs include, for example:
- Access to Active Directory and user management
- Use of file and network drives
- Access to internal company applications
- Use of network services within the organisation
- Access to central IT resources on a Windows Server
The Windows Server CAL licensing model enables organisations to flexibly adapt their server environment to the size of their organisation.
What is a Windows Server CAL?
Definition of the Client Access Licence
A Windows Server CAL (Client Access Licence) is an access licence that allows users or devices to access the services of a Windows Server. Without the appropriate CALs, access to many server functions is not permitted under licensing law.
The CAL is therefore not a piece of software, but rather a licence authorising access to server services.
Difference between a server licence and an access licence
When using Windows Server, a distinction must be made between two types of licence:
Windows Server licence: This licence is required for the server itself and permits the installation and operation of the server operating system.
Windows Server CAL: This access licence is required for users or devices that wish to access the server.
Only the combination of a server licence and CALs enables a fully licensed server environment.
Types of Windows Server CALs
Microsoft offers two different types of Windows Server CALs.
- Windows Server User CAL: A User CAL is assigned to a specific user. This user may access the Windows Server from multiple devices. This licence type is particularly suitable for modern working environments where staff work using, for example, desktop PCs, laptops and mobile devices.
- Windows Server Device CAL: A Device CAL is assigned to a specific device. Any user who uses this device is permitted to access the Windows 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.
Which CAL is the right one?
The most suitable CAL variant depends on a company’s IT structure. Organisations with many mobile staff often opt for User CALs, whilst companies with shared devices frequently use Device CALs.
Windows Server CAL versions
Windows Server CALs are version-specific and must always match the version of Windows Server being used. Different CAL versions are used for different generations of servers:
- Windows Server 2019 CAL – These access licences are used in IT environments based on Windows Server 2019.
- Windows Server 2022 CAL – These CALs are frequently used in modern server infrastructures built on Windows Server 2022.
- Windows Server 2025 CAL – These access licences belong to the current generation of the Windows Server platform and are used for Windows Server 2025.
As a general rule, newer versions of CALs can usually also be used for older versions of Windows Server, whilst older CALs are not valid for newer server versions. This enables organisations to modernise their IT infrastructure in stages whilst flexibly adapting their licensing structure.
When do I need Windows Server CALs?
Windows Server CALs are required whenever users or devices access services on a Windows Server.
Typical scenarios include:
- Access to Active Directory
- Use of file and network drives
- Access to business software on a server
- Access to internal networks or resources
A corresponding CAL is required for every user or device that accesses the server.
Difference between Windows Server CALs and Remote Desktop CALs
Windows Server CALs are often confused with Remote Desktop CALs, but they serve different purposes.
Windows Server CAL
This licence essentially permits access to the services of a Windows Server.
Remote Desktop Services CAL
If users access a server via Remote Desktop Services (RDS), an additional RDS CAL is required.
This means that
,
as a rule, a Windows Server CAL + RDS CAL are required for Remote Desktop connections.
Buy Windows Server CAL licences from LizenzDeals24
At LizenzDeals24, businesses can obtain genuine Microsoft Windows Server CAL licences for various server versions. Our range is aimed in particular at businesses, IT service providers and organisations wishing to licence their server infrastructure in a legally compliant manner.
We offer both Windows Server User CALs and Device CALs for various Windows Server versions. This allows you to tailor your access licences precisely to the requirements of your IT environment.
As a specialist provider of business software, we place great emphasis on straightforward licence provision and fast delivery. Following your purchase, you will usually receive your licence details digitally via email within a short time.
Your benefits with LizenzDeals24:
- verified and genuine Microsoft access licences
- Fast digital delivery
- transparent licensing models for businesses
- technical support for any questions regarding activation
If you’re unsure which Windows Server CAL variant is suitable for your environment, we’ll be happy to help you choose the right access licences for your network.
