User CAL
Catalog row in Vendor License Metrics · Cited
- Unit
- User
- Aliases
- user CAL; User CAL; per user
- Definition
- CAL means client access license, which may be assigned by user or device, as appropriate. A user CAL allows access to corresponding version of the server software or earlier versions of the server software from any device by one user. CALs allow access to server software running on Customer’s Licensed Servers only. (Microsoft Product Terms — Glossary.)
- Counting rules
- Client access licenses may be assigned by user or device, as appropriate. Assign the corresponding version CAL to each user that directly or indirectly accesses instances, except as the product Access Licenses section states. CALs allow access to corresponding version or earlier versions, not later versions. Universal License Terms for all Software: assign a License to a device or user before use; reassignment not less than 90 days unless (i) permanent hardware failure or loss, (ii) termination of the user’s employment or contract, or (iii) temporary reallocation for absence or a device out of service.
- Floors / minimums
- One User CAL assigned to one user. No core floor. Combination of User CALs and Device CALs is permitted (retail/OEM Windows Server terms, last updated July 2024, also state: You may use a combination of device and user CALs).
- Applies to products
- Windows Server
- SQL Server
- Applies to versions
- 2025
- Related metrics
- Product category