Client Access License Calculator
CALs follow the people and devices, not the servers. Count who connects, subtract the users whose Microsoft 365 plan already includes the right, and add the Remote Desktop, SQL Server and Rights Management CALs no cloud plan covers.
How CALs work
One CAL covers every server
A Windows Server CAL lets one user (or one device) access any number of Windows Server machines of the same or earlier version. You count people or devices, never servers.
User or Device CALs
User CALs suit people who work from several devices. Device CALs suit shared devices such as shift workstations or kiosks used by many people.
What Microsoft 365 already covers
Microsoft 365 E3, E5 and F3 and Enterprise Mobility + Security include Windows Server CAL rights for licensed users. They do not cover Remote Desktop Services, SQL Server or on-premises Rights Management CALs.
External Connector
Customers and partners who are not your employees can be licensed per server with an External Connector instead of individual CALs. It pays off once enough outside users reach the same server.
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