Microsoft SQL Server 2017 Device CAL

Microsoft SQL Server 2017 Device CAL – client access licence per device

The SQL Server 2017 Device CAL is the client access licence for SQL Server in the “Server + CAL” model. Every device that accesses the database directly or via an application needs a Device CAL – no matter how many people use it one after another.

You choose 1, 5, 10, 25 or 50 CALs here. The CAL applies to SQL Server 2017 and older versions.

The key facts at a glance

• Access right to SQL Server 2017 and older versions
• Licensing per device
• Packages with 1, 5, 10, 25 or 50 CALs
• No technical activation – proof via licence documents
• Also applies to indirect access via applications

Who is this client access licence for?

• shift work with shared PCs
• till and warehouse workstations
• reception and terminal PCs
• production and workshop PCs

New in SQL Server 2017

• For the first time also on Linux and in Docker containers
• Graph database functions for connected data
• Adaptive query processing and automatic tuning
• Python in addition to R for machine learning in the database

User or Device?

User CALs are worthwhile if employees use several devices. Device CALs are worthwhile if several people share one device, for example in shift work. Important: anyone who accesses the database only indirectly via an application, a web portal or an interface also needs a CAL (so-called multiplexing). With very many or unknown users, core licensing without CALs is the better choice.

Licences compared

You will find more licences in the category SQL Server 2017 CAL.

Why SQL Server 2017?

SQL Server 2017 was the first version to run on Linux as well as Windows. This makes it interesting for mixed environments and containers.

Typical scenarios

• tills in retail
• warehouse terminals and scanner PCs
• shift workstations in production
• reception and information terminals

Example calculation

If there are 8 scanner PCs in the warehouse used by changing employees, you need 8 Device CALs – for example a pack of 5 and three single licences, or a pack of 10 as a reserve.

Documenting licences properly

Keep the invoice and licence documents together and note which licence is used on which server and how many users or devices access it. In an audit by the manufacturer or an auditor, you can then quickly prove that your database is correctly licensed. If the number of users changes, simply order more.

Requirements

• A server licence, for example SQL Server 2017 Standard
• One CAL of the same or a newer version for each user or device with access
• Where applicable, Windows Server CALs for access to the Windows Server itself

Delivery and proof

1. Add the proof of licence from our email and the invoice to your records.
2. SQL Server CALs are not technically activated – they are a usage right that you prove in an audit.
3. Document the number of licensed users or devices and keep it up to date when changes occur.

Frequently asked questions

Does the CAL apply to older SQL Server versions?

Yes, a CAL applies to its own and all older versions.

Do I need CALs with core licensing?

No. SQL Server with a core licence does not require CALs.

Can I buy more CALs later?

Yes, at any time in the quantity required.

Will I receive an invoice?

Yes, with VAT shown, with your company address on request.

Can you advise me on the right licensing?

Yes. Describe your environment (servers, cores, number of users) and we will recommend the right combination.

My software requires a specific SQL Server version – what should I do?

Before buying, check which version the vendor of your specialist application has approved. Feel free to write to us in advance – we will tell you which licence suits your environment.

Delivery, invoice and support

• Delivery by e-mail: you will usually receive proof of licence for the quantity purchased and an explanation of the licensing within 5 to 30 minutes of payment (daily 09:00–21:00 CET). More under Shipping & payment.
• Invoice: every order comes with a proper invoice, with your company address on request.
• Origin of the licence: we source our licences from distributors and wholesalers in Europe. We explain exactly how this works on the page Buying legal software.
• Support: if you have questions about installation or activation, we help by e-mail (Mon–Sun 09:00–21:00 CET), phone (Mon–Fri 09:00–14:00 CET), live chat or remote support with TeamViewer.

Our goodwill promise

If the SQL Server version you ordered is ever no longer available, we will supply the next higher version with the same licence scope at no extra charge. You never pay more than the price at which you ordered.