Buy SQL Server 2022 CAL – The best-selling SQL Server CAL at an affordable price

The SQL Server 2022 CAL is the best-selling Client Access License for SQL Server at Lizenzindustrie—and for good reason. It is the CAL version that best meets current business needs: modern enough for all current SQL Server versions, backward compatible with all older versions, and offering the best value for money of all available CAL versions. If you’re running SQL Server 2022 under the Server+CAL model, the SQL Server 2022 CAL is the right choice. At Lizenzindustrie, you’ll receive your CALs immediately via email—verified, legally compliant, and at a price significantly below the official list price.

When do I need a SQL Server 2022 CAL?

SQL Server CALs are required exclusively in the Server+CAL licensing model. In the Core licensing model, no CALs are required—an unlimited number of users can access the database. The SQL Server 2022 CAL is necessary if you license SQL Server 2022 under the Server+CAL model and users or devices access the database.

The Server+CAL model makes economic sense when the number of users is small and manageable. For example, if you have 15 employees who all access a SQL Server 2022 database, you’ll need one server license and 15 CALs—which is often more cost-effective than purchasing Core licenses for all the server’s physical cores. If you’re unsure which option is more cost-effective, we’re happy to help—just get in touch.

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

SQL Server 2022 CALs are available in two variants:

SQL Server 2022 User CAL—Tied to a specific person. A user with a User CAL can access the SQL Server from any number of devices—from a desktop PC in the office to a laptop in a home office to a tablet on the go. User CALs are the right choice for companies with mobile employees, home office workstations, or users who access the database from multiple devices. If the number of people is fewer than the number of devices used, User CALs are the more cost-effective choice.

SQL Server 2022 Device CAL – Bound to a specific device. A device with a Device CAL may 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 2022 CAL – Compatibility with Other SQL Server Versions

The SQL Server 2022 CAL is fully backward compatible and grants access to:

✔ SQL Server 2022
✔ SQL Server 2019
✔ SQL Server 2017
✔ SQL Server 2016 and earlier versions
✗ SQL Server 2025 – a SQL Server 2025 CAL is required for this

For companies currently running SQL Server 2019 and planning to migrate to SQL Server 2022 in the foreseeable future, purchasing SQL Server 2022 CALs today is already the more future-proof decision compared to SQL Server 2019 CALs.

SQL Server 2022 CAL or SQL Server 2025 CAL – which is better?

If you are currently running SQL Server 2022 and do not plan to migrate to SQL Server 2025 in the next few years, the SQL Server 2022 CAL is the more cost-effective choice—it’s available at a lower price and is fully sufficient for your current infrastructure.

If, on the other hand, you’re already running SQL Server 2025 or have concrete plans to migrate in the foreseeable future, we recommend the SQL Server 2025 CAL right away—it’s more future-proof and the better long-term investment.

How to Purchase from Lizenzindustrie

Purchasing SQL Server 2022 CALs from Lizenzindustrie is incredibly simple. Select the CAL type, specify the quantity, add it to your cart, and complete the purchase—you’ll receive your license keys immediately and automatically via email. No waiting, no physical shipping.

✔ Instant delivery of license keys via email
✔ Verified licenses – 100% activatable via Microsoft servers
✔ Up to 70% cheaper than the official Microsoft list price
✔ User & Device CAL – 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

Not sure which CAL variant or how many CALs you need? Contact us – we’ll advise you free of charge.

Frequently Asked Questions About SQL Server 2022 CALs

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

No. SQL Server CALs are required only with the Server+CAL model. In the Core model, no CALs are required—an unlimited number of users can access the SQL Server.

Can I also use SQL Server 2022 CALs for SQL Server 2019?

Yes. SQL Server 2022 CALs are fully backward compatible and grant access to SQL Server 2019 and all earlier versions.

Does the SQL Server 2022 CAL also grant access to SQL Server 2025?

No. A SQL Server 2025 CAL is required to access SQL Server 2025.

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 server from any number of devices. A Device CAL is tied to a specific device and allows any number of people to access the server via that device.

Can I license external users with SQL Server CALs?

No. SQL Server CALs cannot be used for external users outside the company. For external access, the Core licensing model is the only valid option.

How quickly will I receive my license keys?

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

Close window