#Windows terminal services licenses software#
#Windows terminal services licenses windows#

#Windows terminal services licenses windows#

Windows E3 or E5 is the evolution of the former Windows SA (Software Assurance). This is covered in Windows E3 and E5 licenses and can also be purchased on top of Windows in case you don’t have the E3 or E5 flavour. However, you will need a Windows VDA (Virtual Desktop Access) license. Microsoft writes: “Each user and device that connects to a Remote Desktop Session host needs a client access licenses (CAL).” Read more! What about an RDP connection to a VDI (without the use of RDS)? Simply put, in every situation where you use ‘Remote Desktop Services’ (RDS).

#Windows terminal services licenses software#

A CAL is not a software product rather, it is a license that gives a user the right to access the services of the server.” Read more! When do you need a Microsoft RDS (Remote Desktop Services) CAL? To access this server software legally, a Client Access License (CAL) may be required. “If the workstations in your organization are networked, you likely depend on network server software to perform certain functions, such as file and print sharing.

The matrix of possibilities is vast! In short, when buying RDP related licenses, make sure that you have a good advisor or that you work your way through Microsoft Product terms.īefore continuing this blog post, we would recommend the reader to read our blog post on the options and components of RDP.

Firstly, because the technology and architecture basis below RDS and VDI is complex, and secondly because the rules of the game have evolved over time. ”How much does it cost?” is one that we hear often, and that is… pretty complex matter, to say the least. When we talk with partners and customers, we are frequently confronted with questions about Microsoft RDS & VDI licensing. Yes, even in this 2000+ words post, we will (need to) cut some corners. Just to be sure: by no means will this be a complete reference. In this blog post, we’ll try to put some structure in RDS and VDI licensing and explain some of the main concepts and options.