FAQ: SQL Server 2017 Standard 50 Device CAL
1. What is SQL Server 2017 Standard 50 Device CAL?
SQL Server 2017 Standard 50 Device CAL is an access licence designed for 50 devices that access the Microsoft SQL Server 2017 Standard environment. It is not a programme or installation medium, but a licence document confirming the right to legal access in accordance with Microsoft's licensing rules.
In practice, this means that each specified device, such as a desktop computer, terminal, laptop or workstation, can use the SQL server resources within the limits of the assigned licence. This type of product is often chosen by companies where several employees use one device in different shifts.
2. What does the CAL abbreviation mean?
CAL stands for Client Access License, which is a client access licence. This licence does not replace the SQL Server server licence itself. This means that for the environment to be properly licensed, both a licence for the SQL Server and the appropriate number of CAL licences for users or devices accessing the server are required.
It is worth noting that CAL is a formal and legal element. The client does not purchase an additional installation module, but rather a licence entitlement to use the system in a specific way.
3. What is the difference between User CAL and Device CAL?
User CAL is assigned to a specific user. This user can access the server from multiple devices, such as a office computer, laptop and company phone.
Device CAL is assigned to a specific device. Multiple employees can use this one device, but the device itself must be covered by a licence. This is the model that applies to the SQL Server 2017 Standard 50 Device CAL product.
The choice between User CAL and Device CAL depends on the company's work style. If multiple employees use one workstation, a Device CAL licence is often more cost-effective. If one employee works on multiple devices, a User CAL is usually more suitable.
4. How many CAL licences do I need in my company?
The number of required licences depends on whether devices or users are being licensed. In the case of Device CAL, all devices that connect to the SQL Server directly or indirectly must be counted. If the company has 50 terminals, computers or workstations using the database, 50 Device CALs are required.
It is not enough to count only the number of employees. In the Device CAL model, the number of devices with access to the environment is important. To maintain licence compliance, each access unit should be covered by a proper licence. When expanding the infrastructure, it is usually necessary to purchase additional CALs.
5. Is SQL Server 2017 Standard 50 Device CAL a downloadable software?
No. This is a very important distinction. SQL Server 2017 Standard 50 Device CAL is not an installer, an activation key to run the programme, or an application package. It is a licence document confirming the legality of access for a specified number of devices.
From the client's perspective, this means that the product has a legal and settlement character. It is used to organise the company's licence status and demonstrate compliance during an audit or internal control. The SQL Server itself must be licensed separately.
6. What about licence compliance and compliance?
Compliance means compliance with the manufacturer's conditions and having the necessary documentation to confirm legal use. In the case of CAL licences, the company should know how many devices have access to the server and whether each of them is covered by a proper licence.
The most common mistake is to assume that since the server operates locally in the company, additional access licences are not needed. This is a wrong approach. If the SQL Server environment works in the Server + CAL model, user or device access must be covered by the appropriate number of licences. Proper purchase and storage of licence documents make it easier to demonstrate legality in the event of an audit.
7. Can such a licence be transferred to another device?
In principle, a Device CAL licence is assigned to a specific device. Any transfer should be made in accordance with the manufacturer's licensing rules and must not be used to circumvent the requirement to have the proper number of licences. In practice, caution should be exercised, changes should be documented, and care should be taken to ensure that one actively used device is not treated as multiple workstations without a licence basis.
If the company's equipment changes frequently, it is worth determining the licensing model that will be easier to administer earlier. In many organisations, stable assignment of Device CAL to actually used workstations helps maintain order and compliance.
8. How do I know that the key and licence are legal?
The legality of the product should be assessed based on the reliability of the seller, completeness of documents, and compliance of the offer with Microsoft's licensing rules. In the case of this type of licence, the key or licence confirmation should come from a legal source, and the client should receive sales documentation and proof of purchase.
When purchasing, it is worth paying attention to whether the seller clearly informs that the subject of the sale is a licence, i.e. a legal document, and not physical software. The importance is also the possibility of obtaining support before and after the purchase.
9. What does the delivery look like and what documents do I receive after purchase?
The delivery of such a licence usually takes place electronically. The client receives a set of information necessary to confirm the acquisition of licence entitlements. Since this is a licence product and not standard boxed software, the most important thing is the documentation confirming legality and scope of rights.
A VAT invoice is issued for the purchase, which is an important element of company documentation. In a business environment, this has both accounting and evidentiary significance. Keeping the invoice and licence documents is important from the perspective of asset records and compliance.
10. Where can I get help in choosing the right number of CALs?
If there is uncertainty about whether to choose User CAL or Device CAL, it is best to consult the licensing model before purchasing. This allows you to avoid both excessive costs and the risk of under-licensing the environment.
For matters related to legality, delivery method, licence documents, VAT invoice, and selection of the correct version, you can contact us by phone at 00 800 121 1654. Such a consultation is particularly useful when the company plans an audit, migration of workstations, or expansion of the access infrastructure. You can also contact us at [email protected] for more information.