Buy SQL Server CALs – Client Access Licenses for legally compliant database access

Anyone running Microsoft SQL Server under the Server+CAL licensing model needs a corresponding Client Access License (CAL) for every user or device that accesses the SQL Server. Without valid CALs, access to SQL Server services under the Server+CAL model is not licensed—a risk that can lead to significant back payments during license audits. At Lizenzindustrie, you can purchase SQL Server CALs as verified licenses—delivered immediately via email, at a price up to 70% below the official list price.

What is a SQL Server CAL, and when is it required?

A SQL Server Client Access License (CAL) is the access license that authorizes each user or device to access a SQL Server under the Server+CAL model. It complements the SQL Server license and is mandatory in this licensing model.

It’s important to understand one fundamental point: SQL Server CALs are required exclusively under the Server+CAL licensing model. Under the Core licensing model—where SQL Server is licensed based on the number of physical processor cores—no CALs are required. An unlimited number of users and devices may access the SQL Server under the Core model.

The decision between Server+CAL and Core depends on the number of users accessing the server. For a small, known number of users, Server+CAL is generally the more cost-effective option. Once the number of users exceeds a certain threshold, the Core model becomes more cost-effective. As a rough guideline: For up to about 25 users, Server+CAL is often more cost-effective; beyond that, Core becomes more cost-effective. If you’re unsure, we’d be happy to help with the calculation—just get in touch.

User CAL or Device CAL—what’s the difference?

SQL Server CALs are available in two variants:

SQL Server User CAL – The User CAL is 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 smartphone on the go. User CALs are the right choice for companies where employees work remotely or access the database from multiple devices. If the number of people accessing the SQL Server is fewer than the number of devices used, User CALs are the more cost-effective choice.

SQL Server Device CAL – The Device CAL is tied 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 where a single PC is used by multiple employees across different shifts. If the number of devices is fewer than the number of people accessing the SQL Server, Device CALs are the more cost-effective choice.

How many SQL Server CALs do I need?

The calculation is straightforward:

• User CALs: One CAL per person who accesses the SQL Server—regardless of the number of devices used.
• Device CALs: One CAL per device used to access the SQL Server—regardless of the number of people using that device.

To determine which option is more cost-effective, consider the following: If employees use more than one device on average to access the SQL Server, User CALs are more cost-effective. If more than one person on average uses the same device to access the SQL Server, Device CALs are more cost-effective.

SQL Server CAL Compatibility – Which Version Do I Need?

Unlike Windows Server CALs, which are backward-compatible and can be used with older server versions, SQL Server CALs follow a simpler rule: The CAL version must match or be newer than the SQL Server version.

A SQL Server 2022 CAL therefore grants access to SQL Server 2022 and all older versions. A SQL Server 2019 CAL grants access to SQL Server 2019 and all older versions, but not to SQL Server 2022. To ensure your investment is future-proof, we therefore always recommend the latest available CAL version.

When is the Core model better than Server+CAL?

SQL Server CALs are only required under the Server+CAL licensing model. With the Core model, there are no CALs and no limit on the number of users. The Core model is particularly cost-effective in the following scenarios:

• When a large or unknown number of users access the SQL Server—for example, in web applications with many users
• When external users or customers access the database for whom CALs cannot be purchased
• When the number of users is so large that the Core model becomes more cost-effective overall
• When SQL Server Enterprise is used with unlimited virtualization

Not sure which model is more cost-effective for your situation? Contact us—we’ll help you with the calculation and decision-making process free of charge.

How to Purchase from Lizenzindustrie

Purchasing SQL Server CALs from Lizenzindustrie is incredibly simple. Select the CAL type and version, specify the quantity, add to 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 CALs – both types available
• ✔ All SQL Server versions – CALs for 2012 through 2025 available
• ✔ Legally compliant – verified licenses from EU retailers
• ✔ Fast support – we’ll help you immediately with any licensing questions

Do you have questions about the right licensing strategy for your SQL Server infrastructure? Contact us—we’ll advise you free of charge and help you find the most cost-effective solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About SQL Server CALs

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

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

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. User CALs are suitable for mobile workstations and home office scenarios, while Device CALs are suitable for shared workstations and shift systems.

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

Yes. SQL Server CALs are backward compatible—a newer CAL version also grants access to older SQL Server versions. A SQL Server 2022 CAL grants access to SQL Server 2022, SQL Server 2019, and all older versions.

Does a SQL Server CAL also apply to Windows Server or Exchange Server?

No. SQL Server CALs grant access exclusively to SQL Server under the Server+CAL model. Separate Windows Server CALs are required for Windows Server, separate Exchange Server CALs for Exchange Server, and separate RDS CALs for Remote Desktop Services.

Can I license external users with SQL Server CALs?

No. SQL Server CALs cannot be used for external users—that is, people outside the company such as customers or business partners. 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. Activation takes place directly through the official Microsoft activation servers.