Windows SQL Server 2025 Standard CAL

PLEASE NOTE: CAL licences do not require technical activation or activation software. The licences are supplied with a serial number to provide evidence, in the event of an audit by Microsoft, that the CALs for the devices or users in use are legitimate and comply with the Microsoft Services Agreement.

Microsoft SQL Server 2025 Standard CAL(Client Access Licence) is the essential licence for users or devices accessing the database server, ensuring Microsoft compliance and scalability for SMEs and corporate departments.

User and Device CAL Differences

User CALs authorise a specific user to connect from any device, perfect for mobile, remote or multiple personal PC employees, offering maximum flexibility in hybrid scenarios.Device CALs, on the other hand, bind the licence to a single shared device, allowing multi-user access from fixed locations such as terminal servers, call centres or labs, with optimised costs for highly shared environments.

Shared functionality

Both support full access to SQL Server 2025 Standard features, including relational databases, T-SQL queries, reporting, mid-tier analytics and AI integrations such as vector search.Compatible with Azure Arc hybrid management and Zero Trust security, with no restrictions on 2025 features.

Licensing requirements

Requires a licensed SQL Server 2025 Standard server per core; can be purchased in packages of 1, 5 or 10 units, with varying prices (Device often cheaper for multi-user).Valid in perpetuity, with optional Software Assurance for future upgrades