The RDS Device CAL for Windows Server 2019 licenses one device, not a person. The workstation concerned can open Remote Desktop sessions on your server, regardless of the number of users who take turns on it. Beware of a point that is often misunderstood: a CAL is not software. There is nothing to install on the client machine; the key is registered only on the licence server.
A licence in addition, not instead
- The Windows Server 2019 licence is not enough. It covers the system; the right to access the server falls under the CALs.
- Windows Server CALs and RDS CALs are cumulative. Each Remote Desktop session requires both. The RDS CAL does not replace the Windows Server CAL: this is the most common misunderstanding, and the main cause of remediation during a licensing audit.
- A CAL follows the version of the server. 2019 CALs cover a 2019 or earlier server, never a newer version.
- It does not expire. A CAL is perpetual for the version concerned, as long as the server stays within that generation.
When the Device CAL is the right choice
It becomes economical as soon as several people share the same hardware: morning and afternoon teams on the same workshop workstations, till terminals, information kiosks, training rooms. Conversely, if each staff member connects from a PC, a laptop and a mobile, the User CAL works out considerably cheaper. Simply compare the number of devices with the number of people and license the smaller of the two.
Activation
You receive the key by email within 24 hours at most. Open the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager on the server, activate the licence server, install the licence pack with the key, then select the "Per device" mode in the deployment properties.
System requirements
A properly licensed server running Windows Server 2019, with the Remote Desktop Services role installed and an RDS licence server activated. Extended support for Windows Server 2019 assured until January 2029.
Buy an RDS CAL for Windows Server 2019
Odin Key is operated by CHKEY OÜ, an Estonian company. Official invoice included; support in English by e-mail and live chat. Key sent by email within 24h at most.
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