Buy SQL Server 2016 CAL – Client Access License for SQL Server 2016 at a low price

Anyone running SQL Server 2016 under the Server+CAL licensing model needs a corresponding Client Access License (CAL) for every user or device that accesses the SQL Server. The SQL Server 2016 CAL is the right access license for existing SQL Server 2016 infrastructures—affordable, verified, and backward-compatible with older versions of SQL Server. At Lizenzindustrie, you’ll receive your CALs immediately via email—legally compliant and at an affordable price.

When do I need a SQL Server 2016 CAL?

SQL Server CALs are required exclusively under the Server+CAL licensing model. Under the Core licensing model, no CALs are required—an unlimited number of users can access the server. The SQL Server 2016 CAL is required if you license SQL Server 2016 under the Server+CAL model and users or devices access the database.

Recommendation: Since newer CAL versions are also valid for older SQL Server versions, we recommend that all companies considering a migration purchase a newer CAL version right away. A SQL Server 2019 CAL or SQL Server 2022 CAL is also valid for SQL Server 2016 and prepares you for future upgrades at the same time.

User CAL or Device CAL—which is the right choice?

SQL Server 2016 CALs are available in two variants:

SQL Server 2016 User CAL—Bound to a specific person. A user with a User CAL may access the SQL Server from any number of devices. User CALs are the right choice for companies with mobile employees or users who access the database from multiple devices. If the number of users is fewer than the number of devices used, User CALs are the more cost-effective choice.

SQL Server 2016 Device CAL – Bound to a specific device. A device with a Device CAL can be used by any number of users to access the SQL Server. Device CALs are the right choice for shift-based workstations, shared terminals, and production environments. If the number of devices is fewer than the number of users accessing the server, Device CALs are the more cost-effective choice.

SQL Server 2016 CAL – Compatibility with Other SQL Server Versions

✔ SQL Server 2016
✔ SQL Server 2014
✔ SQL Server 2012 and earlier versions
✗ SQL Server 2017 – requires a SQL Server 2017 CAL or newer
✗ SQL Server 2019 – requires a SQL Server 2019 CAL or newer
✗ SQL Server 2022 – requires a SQL Server 2022 CAL or newer

Recommendation: Future-proof your setup with a newer CAL version

Since newer SQL Server CALs are also valid for older versions, it’s worth considering more recent CAL versions—especially if you’re planning a migration:

SQL Server 2019 CAL – Also valid for SQL Server 2016. The most affordable future-proof option up to SQL Server 2019.
SQL Server 2022 CAL – Also valid for SQL Server 2016. The best choice for companies planning to migrate to SQL Server 2022.

Not sure which CAL version is right for your infrastructure? Contact us—we’ll help you for free.

How to Buy from Lizenzindustrie

Buying SQL Server 2016 CALs from Lizenzindustrie is incredibly easy. Select the CAL type, specify the quantity, add to cart, and complete the purchase—you’ll receive your license keys immediately via email. No waiting, no physical shipping.

✔ Immediate delivery of license keys via email
✔ Verified licenses – 100% activatable via Microsoft servers
✔ Affordable prices – significantly below the official list price
✔ User & Device CALs – both variants available
✔ Backward compatible – also grants access to older SQL Server versions
✔ Legally compliant – verified licenses from EU retailers
✔ Fast support – we’ll help you immediately with any licensing questions

Questions about the correct CAL version or type? Contact us—we’ll advise you directly and free of charge.

Frequently Asked Questions About SQL Server 2016 CALs

Do I need SQL Server CALs with the Core licensing model?

No. SQL Server CALs are required only under the Server+CAL model. No CALs are required under the Core model.

Can I also use SQL Server 2016 CALs for SQL Server 2014?

Yes. SQL Server 2016 CALs are backward compatible and grant access to SQL Server 2014 and all older versions.

Does the SQL Server 2016 CAL also grant access to SQL Server 2017?

No. Access to SQL Server 2017 or newer versions requires a correspondingly newer CAL. Since newer CALs are also valid for older servers, we recommend purchasing a newer CAL version right away to ensure your investment is future-proof.

What is the difference between a User CAL and a Device CAL?

A User CAL is tied to a specific person and allows that person to access the system from any number of devices. A Device CAL is tied to a specific device and allows any number of people to access it. User CALs are suitable for mobile workstations, while Device CALs are suitable for shared workstations and shift systems.

How quickly will I receive my license keys?

Immediately after purchase—your activation keys will be automatically sent to you via email.

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