Microsoft Server 2022 is a powerful platform for businesses that offers a strong solution for remote desktop services (RDS). Microsoft uses two kinds of Client Access Licenses (CALs) to make sure that businesses follow the rules for licensing: Server 2022 RDS Device CAL and Server 2022 RDS Services User CAL. To choose the right CALs for your business, you need to know the difference between these two choices. This article looks at both options, talks about how they are different, and helps you choose the one that is best for your business.
What are RDS CALs and why do you need them?
Before we talk about the different kinds of RDS CALs, we need to know what they are and why we need them. Every device or user that connects to the server needs a Client Access License (CAL). Microsoft gives out CALs for RDS to let people use the Remote Desktop Services feature of Windows Server.
There are two main kinds of RDS CALs:
1. Device CALs: These are tied to a certain device and let more than one person use that device to connect to the server.
User CALs: These are tied to a single user and let that user connect to the server from any device.
Both kinds of CALs make sure that your business follows Microsoft's licensing rules and lets your employees use the tools they need to get their work done.
What is a CAL for Server 2022 RDS Devices?
Server 2022 RDS Device CAL is great for companies that have a set number of devices that many people will use to connect to Remote Desktop Services. For instance, a shared desktop in an office or lab where several people use the same computer to connect to the server.
This kind of CAL is given to the device, not the person using it. This means that as long as they are using that machine, any number of people can access the server from it. When there are shared workstations, kiosks, or other similar devices in an organization, this is a cost-effective way to solve the problem.
The main benefits of Server 2022 RDS Device CAL are:
1. Cost-Effective for Shared Devices: If you have devices that several employees use during the day, a Device CAL can help you save money by limiting the number of licenses you need.
Easy to Manage: The CAL is linked to a device, which makes it easier to manage when many people are using the same machine to access the server.
Perfect for Public Access: Businesses that have kiosks or other devices that the public can use can benefit from Device CALs because these devices are used by many people.
What does Server 2022 RDS Services User CAL mean?
The Server 2022 RDS Services User CAL is great for businesses where users need to connect to the server from more than one device. The User CAL is different from the Device CAL because it is linked to a specific user. This means that the user can access the server from any device, including a desktop, laptop, tablet, or even a mobile phone.
This flexibility is great for companies where workers work from home or use more than one device during the day. It lets people switch between devices without having to get a separate CAL for each one.
Here are some of the best things about Server 2022 RDS Services User CAL:
1. Flexibility for remote workers: A User CAL lets employees access the server from any device and from anywhere, which is great for businesses with remote or hybrid workforces.
Support for Multiple Devices: A User CAL is the better choice if your employees switch between devices often because it lets them access the server from different devices.
Users can manage things more easily because the CAL is linked to the user instead of the device. You don't have to worry about which device is being used.
Comparing CALs for Server 2022 RDS Device and CALs for Server 2022 RDS Services User
Both options give you access to Remote Desktop Services, but they are better for different types of businesses. Here is a comparison to help you choose the best option for you:
How many devices and users there are:
• Device CAL: This is best for businesses that have a set number of devices that many people use. If your business has workstations or kiosks that more than one employee uses during the day, that's great.
User CAL: This is the best option for businesses where users can access the server from more than one device. This is a great option for people who work from home, travel a lot, or have employees who use both desktop and mobile devices.
Things to think about when it comes to cost:
• Device CAL: If you have a lot of users but not a lot of devices, Device CALs can be cheaper because you only need one CAL per device, no matter how many people use it.
User CAL: If you have a lot of devices but not a lot of users, User CALs might be cheaper because each user can access the server from any device without needing extra licenses.
Scalability:
• Device CAL: This choice works well for businesses where employees share a small number of devices, like in manufacturing, retail, or the public sector.
User CAL: This choice is more flexible and can grow with your business, especially if your employees need to access the server from more than one location or device.
Which One Should You Pick?
Your company's structure, the number of devices, and how your employees access the server will all affect whether you choose Server 2022 RDS Device CALs or Server 2022 RDS Services User CALs. Here's a guide to help:
• Pick Device CALs if your business has a lot of shared devices, like workstations or kiosks.
o You have more people than devices.
o You need a cheap way to take care of shared computers.
Pick User CALs if: o Your workers need to be able to get to the server from more than one device.
o You have workers who work from home or on the go and need to get to the server from different places.
Your company is moving to a more flexible, remote workforce.
The end
Both Server 2022 RDS Device CALs and Server 2022 RDS Services User CALs let you use Microsoft's Remote Desktop Services, but they are designed for different types of businesses. User CALs are better for businesses with mobile or remote workers because they are more flexible. Device CALs are better for businesses that share devices. To make the best choice for your company's remote desktop services, carefully consider what your company needs and make sure you follow Microsoft's licensing rules.