Purchasing Client Access Licenses (CALs)
for Servers

If the workstations in your organization are networked, you likely depend on network server software to perform certain functions, such as file and print sharing. To legally access this server software, a Client Access, or CAL, may be required. A CAL is not a software product; rather it is a license that gives a user the right to access the services of the server.

Licensing software with Client Access Licenses can be complicated due to the technical nature of server products and networks. Microsoft offers a device-based CAL (Device CAL) or a user-based CAL (User CAL) for purchase. In addition, an External Connector (EC) license is offered for some products as an optional alternative to address specific customer scenarios.

This overview is for reference purposes only. Before purchasing, you should consult your licensing representative at 1(800)446-9662.