If you run a Windows Server and want people to log in remotely — think a small office with a shared line-of-business app, or a hosted desktop — you need more than just the server license. You need Remote Desktop Services CALs. And RDS licensing is one of the most confusing corners of the Microsoft world, so it’s also where a lot of money gets wasted.
Let’s demystify it. Here’s what RDS CALs are, how many you need, and how to buy them genuine without paying enterprise reseller markups.
⭐ Key Takeaways
- An RDS CAL is required for each user/device connecting via Remote Desktop.
- They’re separate from the Windows Server license itself.
- CALs come in Per User or Per Device modes.
- Match the CAL version to your server version (2019 CALs for a 2019 server, etc.).
- Genuine 50-CAL packs start at $28.99 — far below typical reseller pricing.
What Exactly Is an RDS CAL?
Windows Server lets you host remote sessions through Remote Desktop Services — but out of the box, only a couple of administrative connections are allowed. The moment you want real users logging in to run apps or a shared desktop, Microsoft requires a Remote Desktop Services Client Access License for each of them. It sits on top of the base server license, not instead of it.
The critical rule people miss: your CAL version must match (or exceed) your server version. A Windows Server 2022 host needs 2022 RDS CALs. Buy the wrong year and they won’t apply.
Per User vs Per Device
RDS CALs come in two licensing modes, and picking the right one saves money:
| Mode | Licenses… | Best when |
|---|---|---|
| Per User | Each named user (any device) | Staff use phones, laptops & desktops |
| Per Device | Each device (any user) | Shared terminals / shift workers |
If your team hops between multiple devices, Per User is usually cheaper. If many people share a few fixed terminals, Per Device wins.
How Many CALs Do You Need?
Count either your total users (Per User) or your total connecting devices (Per Device) — whichever mode you chose — and buy that many. The 50-CAL packs at SoftKeys cover most small and mid-size deployments in a single purchase. Planning the wider server side too? See our buy Windows Server cheap guide for the base licensing, and our activation walkthrough once your keys arrive.
🖥️ Genuine Windows Server RDS CALs
RDS CALs from $28.99 (50-pack)
Genuine Remote Desktop licenses for every server version. Instant delivery, real support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need RDS CALs on top of my server license?
Yes. The server license lets you run Windows Server; RDS CALs are separately required for each user or device connecting via Remote Desktop.
Per User or Per Device — which is better?
Per User suits staff who use multiple devices; Per Device suits shared terminals used by many people. Choose whichever gives you fewer licenses.
Do CAL versions have to match my server?
Yes. Your RDS CALs must be the same version as your Windows Server (or newer). 2022 CALs for a 2022 server, for example.
How many CALs does a 50-pack cover?
Fifty users or devices, depending on your licensing mode — enough for most small and mid-size setups.
Are these genuine Microsoft licenses?
Yes — genuine RDS CALs that activate through your Remote Desktop licensing server.
How are they delivered?
By email within minutes of purchase, with activation instructions.
Final Thoughts
RDS licensing feels intimidating, but it boils down to three things: match the CAL version to your server, pick Per User or Per Device based on how your team works, and buy enough for everyone connecting. Get those right and remote access “just works” — without the bloated pricing the enterprise channel is famous for.
Browse genuine Windows Server licenses at SoftKeys.
