Windows Server CALS

Question

I have purchased Windows Server 2022 Standard Cal package.

This is to support the new istallation of a Windows 2022.

I have downloaded the Eval copy of Windows Server.

My issue is the the purchase of the Standard CAL contains neither a list of CALS, or a way to download these CALS. I need to understand how these CALs can be applied to the Windows Server computer prior to performing the Windows Server installation.

I do have the Product code for these CALS, along with the Product Key for the CALS.

Answer 1

Hello  MarkLo Chiano，

Thank you for posting in Microsoft Community forum.

Typically, when you purchase a CAL package for Windows Server, you will receive a license key or activation code that you can use to activate the CALs on your server. You can then install the CALs on your server using the following steps:

1. Open the Server Manager on your Windows Server computer.
2. Click on the "Local Server" option in the left-hand pane.
3. Scroll down to the "Properties" section and click on the "Configure IE ESC" link.
4. In the "Internet Explorer Enhanced Security Configuration" window, select the "Off" option for both administrators and users.

（Note：The reason for turning off Internet Explorer Enhanced Security Configuration (IE ESC) is to allow for a smoother installation process of Windows Server roles and features. IE ESC is a security feature that is enabled by default on Windows Server, and it can sometimes interfere with the installation of roles and features that require access to the internet or other network resources.

By turning off IE ESC, you are temporarily disabling this security feature to allow for a more seamless installation process. Once the installation is complete, you can turn IE ESC back on if you wish to do so. However, it is important to note that turning off IE ESC may increase the security risks on your server, so you should only do this temporarily and with caution.）

5. Close the window and return to the Server Manager.
6. Click on the "Add roles and features" option in the right-hand pane.
7. Follow the prompts to install the appropriate roles and features for your server.
8. When prompted to enter a license key, enter the key or activation code you received with your CAL package.
9. Complete the installation process and restart your server if necessary.

Once you have completed these steps, your CALs should be activated and ready to use on your Windows Server computer.

I hope the information above is helpful.

If you have any question or concern, please feel free to let us know.

Best Regards,

Haijian Shan

Answer 2

Thank you for the information. This is exactly what I expected. Unfortunately, the issue is that I never received either an activation code or a license key.

Answer 3

So once again...I did not receive either a License Key OR an Activation Code. I did receive a Product Key....is this sufficient for installing the CALS?

Answer 4

License key, activation code, and product key are often used interchangeably.Perhaps you can find the seller who sells the Product Key to confirm this problem.

You also nees to confirm that the Eval copy of Windows Server is compatible with the product key you purchased.

Best Regards,

Haijian Shan