Licensing Clients for Windows Server Access

This chart lists the licenses that provide clients the right to access Windows Server 2008 capabilities, along with the highest price a business customer would pay through a volume purchasing program (the Open Business program). Client Access Licenses (CALs) are used to license internal users (e.g., employees and onsite contractors) while External Connectors are used to license access by external users such as customers and partners. A Software Assurance subscription, which provides the right to upgrade to any versions released during the term of coverage and other benefits, is available at an annual cost of 25% of the original license purchase price.

Besides being available on its own, the Windows Server CAL can be acquired as part of Microsoft’s Core CAL Suite or Enterprise CAL Suite. Similarly, the Rights Management Services CAL is available on its own or as part of the Enterprise CAL Suite. The Terminal Services CAL is not included in any suite and always must be purchased separately.