New Server, 48 cores, with 48 core Standard 2022 Server and 20 CALs, replacing older DC Server. Do I need to purchase RDS license?

Question

One server is our DC only, the 2nd is our file server and also holds 3 programs that the 20 workstations (each running WIN 10 or 11) get access to. The 3rd server is set up to

Replicate server #2 (File server). It is 24 miles away and uses a VPN tunnel set up between our two Fortinet Firewalls. We also have two company laptops that have a VPN tunnel set up on the Fortinet Firewall(s).

Answer 1

Hello Chuck Morris,

In my assessment, given that the third server includes services such as a file server and programs, it is necessary to have the RDS CAL. RDS Cal as addictive Cal is required for every user or device accessing advanced functionality. The number of licenses you need will depend on the number of users who will be accessing the server through RDS.

Here are two screenshots regarding the base CAL and addictive CAL; I hope they may be of assistance.

I recommend reviewing our licensing documentation: https://www.microsoft.com/licensing/docs/view/Windows-Server

Note: For licensing inquiries, we recommend consulting with certified Microsoft licensing specialists or your vendor. Licenses constitute legal agreements between you and Microsoft. As tech support, our expertise lies in addressing technical issues, and we can offer only fundamental information about CAL.

Windows Remote Desktop Server CAL 2022 (microsoft.com)

Regards,

Karlie