Microsoft Windows Server 2025 CALs & RDS CALs
According to Microsoft, every user or device accessing Windows Server 2025 requires a Windows Server Client Access License (CAL). A user CAL covers one user on any device, a device CAL one device for any user. For external users, an External Connector per server is available as an alternative.
According to Microsoft, Remote Desktop Services additionally requires an RDS CAL per user or device on top of the Windows Server CAL. RDS CALs are issued by a Remote Desktop licensing server and must be at least the version of the session host. We work with you to determine the right model for your environment.
We are happy to advise you on the right licensing and prepare an individual quotation.
Key facts according to Microsoft
- Windows Server CAL for every accessing user or device
- User CAL: one user, any device
- Device CAL: one device, any user
- RDS CAL in addition to the server CAL for Remote Desktop Services
- Version 2025 RDS CALs also valid for session hosts running Server 2016 to 2022
- Grace period without licensing server: 120 days
Areas of use
- Access to file, print and application servers
- Terminal servers and Remote Desktop Services
- External users via External Connector
Models and key specifications
| Licence | Assignment | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Windows Server 2025 User CAL | per user | any device |
| Windows Server 2025 Device CAL | per device | any user |
| Windows Server 2025 RDS User CAL | per user | in addition to the server CAL, user in Active Directory |
| Windows Server 2025 RDS Device CAL | per device | in addition to the server CAL |
| Windows Server External Connector | per server | for external users |
According to Microsoft, Windows Server 2025 RDS CALs can only be installed on a licensing server running Windows Server 2025. RDS CALs of earlier versions do not grant access to session hosts running Windows Server 2025.
Source of information: Microsoft Licensing: Windows Server 2025 ·Microsoft Learn: RDS Client Access Licenses
Enquiry
Request a licence quote
Tell us the product, quantity and intended use. We advise you on the appropriate licensing and prepare an individual quote.
We are happy to advise you on project and volume enquiries.
- Non-binding request
- Individual quote based on your requirements
- Consulting, implementation and operation from a single source