Do we need to buy CAL if we are buying per core licence Windows Server 2016/2019/ Standard

Question

100+ users using Windows Server 2016/ 2019 Standard as a File Server.

If I am going for per core licensing Should I buy Cals ?

Answer 1

Hi @Siraj ,

For users accessing a server to use services such as file storage or printing, you will need User CALs.

Please also note that these are technical forums, and is not meant for providing legal advice on licensing. licensing questions are best asked directly to a trained Microsoft licensing specialist.

You can contact Microsoft directly and discuss your licensing needs - www.microsoft.com/licensing

You'll also find some licensing information here:

• Client Access Licenses and Management Licenses

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Best regards,
Leon

Answer 2

Hi there,

CALs are required by Microsoft licensing for all users or devices that access Windows Server Standard or Windows Server Datacenter. When a customer buys Windows Server Standard or Datacenter, they receive a server license that allows them to install the operating system on one computer. A server software license by itself doesn't provide the license rights to allow anyone to connect to that computer, whether they work for the company or not. Instead, each user or device needs a CAL.

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