Microsoft Windows Server 2016 Remote Desktop Services CAL - Per User License Enable secure remote access to your Windows Server 2016 infrastructure with genuine Remote Desktop Services (RDS) Client Access Licenses. Each User CAL allows one named user to access Remote Desktop Services from unlimited devices, making it perfect for employees who work from multiple locations or devices. What is a Remote Desktop Services CAL? A Remote Desktop Services CAL is required for each user or device that connects to Windows Server using Remote Desktop Services. This includes terminal server sessions, virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), and RemoteApp programs. RDS CALs are separate from standard Windows Server CALs—you need both to legally access remote desktop features. User CAL vs Device CAL User CAL (This License): Assigned to a specific user who can then access RDS from any device—laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone. Ideal for employees who work from multiple locations or use multiple devices. Device CAL: Assigned to a specific device that multiple users can share. Better for shared workstations or kiosks where multiple people use the same computer. Key Features and Benefits Multi-Device Access: One user can connect from unlimited devices Secure Remote Work: Enable employees to work from anywhere securely VDI Support: Use with Virtual Desktop Infrastructure deployments RemoteApp Compatible: Publish individual applications to remote users Genuine Microsoft License: 100% authentic, legally compliant Instant Digital Delivery: Receive your license key immediately via email Lifetime Validity: Perpetual license with no expiration What You'll Receive Genuine Windows Server 2016 RDS User CAL license key Instant email delivery with activation instructions Step-by-step installation guide Official Microsoft support and updates Email support for activation assistance System Requirements Windows Server 2016 (Standard or Datacenter edition) Remote Desktop Services role installed and configured RDS License Server for CAL activation Network connectivity for license activation Active Directory domain (recommended) How to Activate Your RDS CAL Install and configure the RDS Licensing role on your Windows Server 2016 Open Remote Desktop Licensing Manager from Server Manager Right-click your license server and select "Install Licenses" Choose your connection method (Automatic or Web Browser) Enter your CAL license key when prompted Complete the activation wizard CALs will be available immediately for assignment For detailed setup instructions, visit Microsoft's RDS CAL documentation. Understanding RDS Licensing Remote Desktop Services licensing can be confusing. Here's what you need to know: Two Types of CALs: You need both a Windows Server CAL AND an RDS CAL for each user/device Per User vs Per Device: Choose based on your usage pattern—User CALs for mobile workers, Device CALs for shared computers Version Compatibility: Windows Server 2016 RDS CALs work with Server 2016, 2019, 2022, and 2025 (backward and forward compatible) Grace Period: New RDS deployments have a 120-day grace period before CALs are required Perfect For Remote Workers: Employees accessing company applications from home or on the road Multi-Device Users: Staff who use laptops, desktops, tablets, and smartphones Virtual Desktop Infrastructure: VDI deployments for centralized desktop management Terminal Server Environments: Shared application servers accessed by multiple users RemoteApp Publishing: Delivering individual applications to remote users Flexible Work Arrangements: Businesses enabling work-from-anywhere policies Branch Offices: Remote locations accessing centralized applications Why Choose User CALs Over Device CALs? User CALs are the better choice when: Employees work from multiple devices (laptop, desktop, tablet, phone) Staff work remotely or travel frequently You have a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy Users access RDS from home and office computers You want flexibility for employees to work from anywhere Device CALs make more sense for shared workstations, kiosks, or situations where multiple users share the same computer. Frequently Asked Questions Do I need both a Windows Server CAL and an RDS CAL? Yes. To access Remote Desktop Services, each user or device needs both a Windows Server CAL (for basic server access) and an RDS CAL (for remote desktop features). They're separate licenses serving different purposes. The Windows Server CAL allows access to the server, while the RDS CAL specifically permits Remote Desktop Services usage. Can I use Windows Server 2016 RDS CALs with newer server versions? Yes, RDS CALs are backward and forward compatible. Windows Server 2016 RDS CALs work with Server 2016, 2019, 2022, and 2025. This means you can upgrade your server without buying new CALs. However, you cannot use newer RDS CALs (like 2019 or 2022) with older servers (like 2012). How many CALs do I need to purchase? For User CALs, you need one license for each person who will access RDS, regardless of how many devices they use. For example, if you have 20 employees who need remote access, you need 20 User CALs—even if they each use 3 different devices. For Device CALs, you need one for each device that will connect, regardless of how many users share it. What's the difference between RDS CALs and Windows Server CALs? Windows Server CALs grant basic access to the server for file sharing, print services, and other standard server functions. RDS CALs are specifically for Remote Desktop Services—terminal server sessions, VDI, and RemoteApp. You need both types of CALs for users to access RDS legally. How long does it take to receive my license? Your RDS CAL license key is delivered instantly via email immediately after purchase. You'll receive your product key, download links (if needed), and activation instructions within minutes. Installation and activation typically takes 15-30 minutes depending on your environment. Do RDS CALs expire or need renewal? No, RDS CALs are perpetual licenses with lifetime validity. Once purchased and activated, they never expire and don't require renewal fees. You own them forever and can continue using them as long as you're running a compatible version of Windows Server. Can I transfer User CALs between employees? Yes, but not frequently. Microsoft's licensing terms allow reassignment of User CALs, but only on a permanent basis (when an employee leaves) or after a 90-day waiting period. You cannot reassign CALs daily or weekly—they must be assigned to a specific user for at least 90 days. What happens during the 120-day grace period? When you first install Remote Desktop Services, Windows Server provides a 120-day grace period during which users can connect without CALs. This gives you time to set up your RDS License Server and purchase CALs. After 120 days, users cannot connect without valid CALs installed. Do external users need RDS CALs? Yes, any user connecting to Remote Desktop Services needs an RDS CAL, whether they're internal employees or external users (contractors, partners, customers). There's a special External Connector license available for scenarios with many external users, which may be more cost-effective than individual CALs. Can I use these CALs for Azure Virtual Desktop? No, Azure Virtual Desktop (formerly Windows Virtual Desktop) has different licensing requirements. AVD is included with certain Microsoft 365 licenses and doesn't use traditional RDS CALs. These RDS CALs are for on-premises Windows Server deployments only. Installation Support Setting up RDS licensing can be complex. Our package includes: Detailed step-by-step installation guide Activation instructions for both automatic and manual methods Troubleshooting tips for common issues Email support if you need assistance Links to official Microsoft documentation Compliance and Legal Use Using genuine Microsoft RDS CALs ensures: Legal Compliance: Avoid penalties and legal issues from software audits Official Support: Access to Microsoft technical support and resources Security Updates: Receive critical security patches and updates Peace of Mind: Know your licensing is legitimate and properly documented Why Buy From Us? 100% Genuine Licenses: Authentic Microsoft RDS CALs from authorized channels Instant Delivery: Receive your license key within minutes via email Lifetime Validity: Perpetual licenses that never expire Competitive Pricing: Best value for genuine Microsoft licensing Expert Support: Assistance with activation and installation if needed Secure Transactions: Safe, encrypted payment processing Get Started Today Enable secure, flexible remote access for your workforce. Whether you're supporting remote workers, implementing VDI, or running terminal server applications, Windows Server 2016 RDS User CALs provide the licensing foundation you need. Order now and receive instant digital delivery. Your license key will be in your inbox within minutes Max 12 hours, ready to activate. Note: This is a digital license only. Requires Windows Server 2016 with Remote Desktop Services role installed. Windows Server CALs sold separately and required for legal RDS access.
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