CAL licence

ggzik 21 Reputation points
2021-03-04T11:49:42.187+00:00

I am buying a server to my office. it will be used as domain controller and as a file sync for mechanical design application (PDM) for the PDM - no user will work remotly on the server. all applications are running on the users station solely, it is only the file sync. meaning - i am uploading a file from the server, i work on it, and the check in my updates and upload to the server. do i need CAL licence?

Windows Server
Windows Server
A family of Microsoft server operating systems that support enterprise-level management, data storage, applications, and communications.
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Accepted answer
  1. Karlie Weng 13,241 Reputation points Microsoft Vendor
    2021-03-05T03:02:54.853+00:00

    Hello @ggzik

    Yes, you will need CALs for file services.

    Any client requires a CAL in order to access the server. It does not matter what service they are using, they need the CAL..

    In a client/server environment the normal process is for clients to store their files on the server and not on the client. This gives a centralized location to then back up.

    Have a look at Client Access Licenses and Management Licenses for further details.

    Thread for your reference: Do I need CAL for my Windows Server 2016 Standard if it's used only for data sharing?

    Best Regards
    Karlie

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3 additional answers

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  1. Dave Patrick 425.7K Reputation points MVP
    2021-03-04T13:11:29.857+00:00

    You may need windows Cals.
    https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/licensing/product-licensing/client-access-license

    Better to raise legal licensing issues with your reseller's trained licensing specialist or ask microsoft directly.
    https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/about/officelocator

    --please don't forget to Accept as answer if the reply is helpful--


  2. Dave Patrick 425.7K Reputation points MVP
    2021-03-04T14:38:48.317+00:00

    Some general info

    • Any user or device that accesses Microsoft server software directly or indirectly legally requires at least one CAL
    • With the User CAL, you purchase a CAL for every user who accesses the server to use services such as file storage or printing, regardless of the number of devices they use for that access.
    • With a Device CAL, you purchase a CAL for every device that accesses your server, regardless of the number of users who use that device to access the server.

    --please don't forget to Accept as answer if the reply is helpful--

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  3. ggzik 21 Reputation points
    2021-03-16T07:54:36.377+00:00

    thansk
    you were very helpful