The RDS Device CAL for Windows Server 2022 licenses one device for access to your server's Remote Desktop Services. Everyone who uses that workstation is covered by this single licence. Important reminder: a CAL is not software, there is nothing to install on the client machine. The key is registered exclusively in the server's licensing manager.
Three things to remember
- The CAL is compulsory in addition to the server licence. Windows Server 2022 is licensed per core; access is licensed per CAL. The two are inseparable from a legal standpoint.
- RDS CALs are added to Windows Server CALs. A Remote Desktop session consumes one of each. This is the leading source of non-compliance found in audits — so it is worth anticipating.
- A CAL is perpetual but tied to a generation. These 2022 CALs work with a 2022 or earlier server; moving to Windows Server 2025 will require new CALs.
Device or User: do the maths
The Device CAL is designed for shared hardware: workshop workstations occupied in successive shifts, sales terminals, information kiosks, training rooms. Eight people on three workstations? Three CALs are enough. On the other hand, if each staff member connects from an office computer, a laptop and a phone, the User CAL is much more advantageous: it follows the person, with no device limit. Both modes can coexist on the same server, provided the count is kept.
Activation
You receive the key by email within 24 hours at most. On the server: Remote Desktop Licensing Manager, activation of the licence server, installation of the licence pack with the key, then "Per device" mode in the Remote Desktop deployment configuration.
System requirements
A licensed Windows Server 2022 server, Remote Desktop Services role installed, RDS licence server activated and reachable by the session hosts. Extended support for Windows Server 2022 until October 2031.
Buy an RDS CAL for Windows Server 2022
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 after receipt of payment.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.