Buy RDS Device CALs + access licence – device-based bundle

Wherever several employees share the same device – with shift work, in call centres, at terminal workstations or in production – device-based licensing with Remote Desktop Services Device CALs is the most economical solution. With the RDS Device CALs + Windows Server bundle from Lizenzindustrie you get the server licence and the matching device-based access licences in one order – cheaper than ordering them separately. You will find both versions at a glance under Windows Server & Remote.

What is an RDS Device CAL?

A Remote Desktop Services Device CAL (Client Access Licence) is an access licence for Remote Desktop connections to a Windows server that is assigned to a specific device. The decisive difference from the User CAL: the licence applies to the device – not to the person. A licensed device can be used by any number of different users to access the server without a separate licence being required for each individual user.

This makes Device CAL licensing particularly attractive for environments in which the number of users exceeds the number of devices – for example when different employees share the same workstation across several shifts.

Who are RDS Device CALs worthwhile for?

Device-based licensing is the more economical choice if the number of your devices is smaller than the number of your users:

Shift work: if the early, late and night shifts share the same workstations, one licence per device is enough instead of one per employee – with three shifts, that potentially means only a third of the number of CALs.
Call centres and service centres: workstations used by changing employees are licensed considerably more cheaply with Device CALs.
Production and warehousing: shared terminals at machines, in warehouses or at picking stations that are accessed by many different employees.
Terminal workstations: thin clients and fixed workstations in training rooms, libraries, reception areas or public authorities that are used by changing people.
Kiosk mode and information terminals: publicly or semi-publicly accessible terminals that access a terminal server.

Device CAL or User CAL – helping you decide

Count two values in your environment: the number of devices that access the server via Remote Desktop and the number of employees who use these devices. If the number of devices is smaller than the number of users, Device CALs are the more economical choice. For environments with the opposite ratio – more devices than users, for example when working from home with several devices per employee – we recommend the RDS User CALs + User Access Licence bundle instead.

What is included in the bundle?

Windows Server – the current server version as the basis for your terminal workstations. Individual licences are available in the Windows Server category.

RDS Device CALs – device-based Remote Desktop access licences in the quantity you need. Matching individual CALs such as the Remote Desktop 2025 CAL are also available.

How buying from Lizenzindustrie works

Here is how to order the device-based bundle: choose the number of Device CALs you need, add to your basket and complete your purchase – you will receive all licence keys by email, usually within 5 to 30 minutes after payment is received (daily 9:00–21:00). No physical shipping. The RDS CALs are then installed on your Remote Desktop licence server.

✔ Delivery by email – all licence keys usually 5 to 30 minutes after payment is received (daily 9:00–21:00)
✔ Verified licences – with proof of licence for your records
✔ Cheaper than buying the server licence and Device CALs separately
✔ Device-based – one device, any number of users
✔ Ideal for shift work & terminal workstations
✔ Traceable origin – licences from distributors and wholesalers in Europe
✔ Fast support – we help you quickly if you have questions

Not sure how many Device CALs you need? Our Support & Service team will help you free of charge.

Frequently asked questions about RDS Device CALs

How is a Device CAL assigned?

On the first connection, the device initially receives a temporary licence; from the second connection onwards, the Remote Desktop licence server automatically assigns a permanent Device CAL. From that point on the device is licensed, and any number of users can access the server through it. Licences are managed via the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager on the server.

Can I transfer Device CALs to another device?

Reassigning a Device CAL to another device is possible, but is subject to the Microsoft licence terms, which provide for permanent reassignments, for example in the event of device failure or replacement. Frequent switching between devices at short notice is not intended. We will be happy to advise you on the correct procedure.

How many Device CALs do I need?

You need one Device CAL for every device that accesses the server via Remote Desktop – regardless of how many different people use that device. With shift work, ten workstations and 30 employees, that means ten Device CALs. We will be happy to go through the numbers with you free of charge.