FAQ: Exchange Server 2019 Enterprise -- 1 User CAL
1. What is an Exchange Server 2019 Enterprise User CAL licence?
The Exchange Server 2019 Enterprise User CAL licence is the right of access for one user to the functions of the Microsoft Exchange server. It is not an installation program or physical software, but a client access licence confirming the legal right to use the server services. In practice, this means that a specific person can connect to the company's Exchange environment and use the functions assigned to them in accordance with Microsoft's licensing terms.
2. Is a User CAL the same as the Exchange server licence itself?
No. These are two different elements. First, the company must have an Exchange Server licence, and additionally, the appropriate CALs are needed for the users or devices that use this server. The server licence alone does not yet authorise all employees to access it. The User CAL is therefore a licensing document that extends the legal use of Exchange services by the specified number of users.
3. How does User CAL differ from Device CAL?
The User CAL is assigned to a specific user. This person can use Exchange from multiple devices, such as a desktop computer, laptop, and phone. The Device CAL, on the other hand, is assigned to a specific device. Multiple people can then use one computer, but the licence applies to that hardware.
In practice:
- User CAL is more often worthwhile when one employee uses multiple devices.
- Device CAL is more beneficial in shared environments, such as at reception, in a warehouse, or at shift workstations.
4. How many User CAL licences should be purchased?
You should buy as many licences as there are actual users using the Exchange server. If 10 employees use email, calendars, shared mailboxes, or other server services, the company should have at least 10 appropriate CALs. Licences are not purchased "for the company" collectively without licensing sense, but in a quantity corresponding to the actual scale of use. When the team expands, the number of CALs should be supplemented.
5. Is one 1 User CAL licence enough for the entire company?
No. The 1 User CAL product means exactly one authorisation for one user. If more people in the organisation use Exchange, each of them must be covered by an appropriate licence. This is very important from the point of view of licensing compliance. Buying too few CALs may be treated as using software without full licensing rights.
6. Is this licence valid during a control or audit of legality?
Yes, provided it was purchased from a legitimate source and the purchase documentation is complete. In the event of an audit, the following are taken into account:
- the origin of the licence,
- the compatibility of the licence type with the actual method of use,
- the number of CALs purchased,
- the sales document, e.g. VAT invoice.
Therefore, it is so important to buy only legitimate licences and store documents confirming their purchase. The audit usually verifies not only the purchase itself but also whether the number of licences corresponds to the number of users or devices.
7. What about the legality and authenticity of the key or licence?
In the case of this product, the legality of the licence's origin is crucial. The customer should receive the licence from a reliable sales channel, along with commercial documentation. This is particularly important because we are talking about a licence as a legal document, not just the medium or packaging. Legality is confirmed by compliant sales conditions, full product identification, and a VAT invoice. For many companies, this is a fundamental element of security when making business purchases.
8. Can a User CAL licence be transferred to another person or company?
The rules for transferring a licence depend on the type of licence and the conditions under which it was introduced to the market. As a rule, caution should be exercised and the possibility of transfer should be treated as a matter requiring compliance with documentation and applicable licensing terms. In a company environment, it is essential not to make "arbitrary" transfers of rights without a legal basis. If there is a need to change the assignment or clarify the transfer rules, it is worth consulting the purchase with an advisor before finalising the order.
9. How is the licence delivery carried out?
The delivery of such a product usually takes place electronically, which is convenient and fast for companies and IT departments. This means transferring licensing data and documents remotely, without waiting for a physical shipment. This solution works well for business purchases, especially when it comes to quickly supplementing licensing gaps before implementation, control, or audit.
10. Will I receive a VAT invoice, and where can I get help before making a purchase?
Yes, a VAT invoice is issued for the purchase, which is an important accounting document and proof of licence purchase. This is essential for both company settlements and confirmation of legality during a potential inspection. If you need help in selecting the number of licences, want to compare User CAL with Device CAL, or ensure which variant will be compatible with your company's work model, contact us by phone at 00 800 121 1654 or email [email protected].