Microsoft SQL Server CAL: Licences for professional database management
An SQL server is basically a database management system that organises data so that it is stored in different tables and linked together using relationships between these tables. This makes it easy to retrieve the data you need and analyse it efficiently.
SQL servers are used in a large number of applications including:
- Transaction processing such as in online shops
- Business intelligence (BI) to merge data from different sources to analyse and use it to make business decisions.
- Data analytics to process data from multiple sources, identify patterns and trends, and gain insight into the business.
The three most important advantages of SQL servers are: Efficiency, security and scalability.
Microsoft SQL Server is a series of popular SQL Server products used by businesses and organisations around the world. Microsoft SQL Server is available in a range of Editions to suit different requirements.
SQL Server CALs, or Client Access Licences, are the licences that let client devices or users access and use Microsoft SQL Server. CALs are needed for each client device or user who accesses the SQL Server software.
Microsoft SQL Server CAL - When is it needed?
A SQL Server CAL is required when a user or device needs to access a SQL Server. This is the case regardless of whether access takes place directly or indirectly.
- Direct access is defined as access to SQL Server by a client device or a user.
- Indirect access is defined as access to SQL Server via another application or service.
You will need to purchase CALs for all users and devices accessing SQL Server if you use an SQL server.. The number of CALs you need depends on what kind of access you are using and how many users or devices are accessing SQL Server.
Here are some examples of when SQL Server CALs are required:
- A user uses SQL Server Management Studio to open an SQL Server database.
- A user uses a web-based application that needs to access SQL Server.
- A device uses an SQL Server database as a data source.
- A device uses an SQL Server database as a messaging source or messaging storage.
The different licences for Microsoft SQL Server: User CALs and Device CALs
There are basically two licensing models for SQL Server CALs:
- User CALs: These CALs are for individual users who access the SQL Server software.
- Device CALs: These CALs are for devices that access the SQL Server software, no matter how many users use the device to access the software.
The type of CAL you need depends on the licensing model your organisation uses for SQL Server. If you have a small number of users who all have direct access to the SQL Server software, you will need to purchase User CALs. If you have a large number of users who share devices, or if you have users who access the SQL Server software indirectly (for example, through a web application), you will need to purchase Device CALs.
Microsoft SQL Server CALs: Purchase pre-owned from VENDOSOFT
There are a number of reasons why you should purchase a pre-owned SQL Server access licence:
- Cost savings: Pre-owned access licences are usually a lot less expensive than new access licenses. Allowing you to save up to 70 % or more.
- Flexibility: Pre-owned licences can be a great way to add flexibility to your IT infrastructure. You can purchase the exact licences you need today, then upgrade or customise them later as your requirements change.
- Sustainability: Pre-owned access licenses are a more sustainable choice than new access licenses.
If you are considering purchasing a pre-owned SQL Server CAL, there are a number of things you should be aware of:
- It is important to make sure that the licences you are purchasing are genuine and legitimate. Resellers of pre-owned licences are plenty, but not all of them are trustworthy.
- It is important to make sure that the licences meet for your requirements. Make sure you purchase the right Edition (User CALs or Device CALs) and the right number of licences.
- Make sure you find a reliable reseller. Read reviews and ask for legally compliant documentation before you make your choice. Compare prices, but do not be fooled by cheap deals!
VENDOSOFT is an authorised reseller and official Microsoft Solutions Partner. Our licensing consultants are available to assist you at any time before and after your purchase. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have about Microsoft licensing in person.
Whenever you order from us, you receive:
- Vendor-compliant & audit-ready licences and access licenses
- Notice of termination for the transfer of user rights
- Near instant download of the software within 5 minutes
- Volume licence key for activation
- Confirmation of legal purchase by the auditing firm Stümpges & Partner (for orders over 3,500 euro)
- Free audit support
