Buy CAL licenses

Microsoft CAL Licenses: Optimize Access to Your Infrastructure

CAL (Client Access Licenses) are a fundamental, yet often misunderstood, component of the Microsoft enterprise software ecosystem. Unlike a server license (which authorizes the software installation on hardware), a CAL is the legal right that allows a user or device to interact with that server’s services.

At CHEAPFY, we supply original pre-owned CAL licenses for Windows Server, SQL Server, Exchange, and RDS—all 100% legal. Our secondary software model allows companies to comply with Microsoft audits while saving up to 70%.

What are CALs and Why are They Mandatory?

A CAL is not software that you install (with the exception of RDS); it is a right of use. If your company runs a server with Windows Server, SQL, or Exchange, every connection to that server must be backed by a CAL to be legal. Without them, your company is in a position of licensing non-compliance, regardless of whether the server itself has an original license.

The Golden Rule of Versions (Backward Compatibility)

A critical aspect we manage at CHEAPFY is the version hierarchy. CALs allow access to equal or earlier versions, but never later ones:

• Correct Example: A Windows Server 2025 CAL can access 2025, 2022, 2019, and 2016 servers.

• Incorrect Example: A Windows Server 2019 CAL cannot access a server running Windows Server 2022 or 2025.

CAL Types: User vs. Device

Choosing between User or Device CALs is the most important decision for optimizing your IT budget.

1. User CAL (Per User License)

Assigns access rights to a specific person. That employee can access the server from an unlimited number of devices (desktop PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet).

• When to choose it: In modern companies where employees are mobile and use multiple devices to connect to the corporate network. It is cost-effective if the number of users is lower than the number of devices.

2. Device CAL (Per Device License)

Assigns access rights to a specific physical machine. An unlimited number of users can use that device to interact with the server.

• When to choose it: In shift-work environments (contact centers, receptions, manufacturing floors) where multiple employees share the same computer. It is cost-effective if the number of devices is lower than the number of users.

Software Ecosystems Requiring CALs

Windows Server CAL

The foundation of any Microsoft network. It is required for basic services such as:

• File storage and sharing.

• Printing services.

• Identity authentication (Active Directory).

• DHCP and DNS.

• Note: Every user connecting to a Windows server needs this CAL, even if it is only to validate their username when turning on the PC.

SQL Server CAL

If you use the Server + CAL licensing model (instead of the Per Core model), you will need these licenses to allow users or devices to interact with the databases.

• Important: SQL Server is a critical product in audits; ensuring every terminal querying data has its CAL is vital.

Exchange Server CAL (Standard and Enterprise)

To manage corporate email and collaboration, Exchange requires its own CALs in addition to Windows Server CALs:

• Standard CAL: Basic email, calendar, and contact functions.

• Enterprise CAL: Advanced features for archiving, legal hold, and data protection (requires a Standard CAL as well).

Remote Desktop Services CAL (RDS CAL)

Unlike the others, RDS CALs are licenses that are technically installed and activated on a license server. They are necessary when users access remote desktops or virtualized applications.

• Pro Tip: RDS CALs are always an add-on. To use RDS, the user must have a Windows Server CAL AND an RDS CAL.

Advantages of Buying CALs at CHEAPFY

Acquiring pre-owned access licenses is the smartest strategy for procurement and IT departments:

1. Massive Savings: The cost of new CALs can be prohibitive for large workforces. At CHEAPFY, we reduce this expense drastically.
2. Perpetual Licenses: These are not subscriptions. You make a one-time payment, and the access right is yours forever.
3. Total Legal Compliance: Licenses that strictly follow European software resale regulations.
4. Availability of Older Versions: At CHEAPFY, we stock versions such as 2016, 2019, or 2022 so you don’t have to pay for higher versions you don’t need.

At CHEAPFY you can buy CALs for Windows Server, SQL Server, Exchange Server and RDS up to 70% cheaper. If you need a quote for a large volume of licenses, contact us for a personalised quote.