Device CAL For Windows Server 2022 RDS (Remote Desktop Services)
Device CAL for Windows Server 2025 Remote Desktop Services (RDS)
Buy Remote Desktop Services CALs
Remote Desktop Services (RDS) lets people use Windows desktops and applications that run on a central Windows Server. Every user or device that connects needs an RDS Client Access License (CAL), installed on your RD Licensing server.
Every RDS CAL on this page is a genuine, one-time purchase. License keys are delivered digitally by email and allow business use.
Which RDS CAL Version Do You Need?
Match the CAL version to your newest RD Session Host. CALs work with their own version and older ones:
| CAL version | User CAL | Device CAL | Session hosts covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows Server 2025 | User CAL 2025 | Device CAL 2025 | 2025, 2022, 2019 and 2016 |
| Windows Server 2022 | User CAL 2022 | Device CAL 2022 | 2022, 2019 and 2016 |
| Windows Server 2019 | User CAL 2019 | Device CAL 2019 or 5-device pack | 2019, 2016 and 2012 R2 |
| Windows Server 2016 | User CAL 2016 | Device CAL 2016 | 2016 and 2012 R2 |
For a new RDS deployment, buy Windows Server 2025 RDS CALs. They cover today's newest hosts and every older version listed above.
RDS User CAL vs Device CAL
RDS is licensed per user or per device. Choose the model that matches how people work:
| Question | User CAL | Device CAL |
|---|---|---|
| What is licensed | One named person | One physical device |
| Devices covered | Unlimited for that user | One |
| Users covered | One | Unlimited on that device |
| Best fit | Remote, hybrid and mobile staff | Shift work, thin clients and shared PCs |
| Works in a workgroup | No, needs Active Directory | Yes |
A simple rule: count people and count devices, then license whichever number is smaller.
Three RDS Licensing Rules Worth Knowing
- The RD Licensing server must run the same version as the CALs or a newer one
- RDS CALs are separate from Windows Server CALs, and both are required
- Without CALs, RDS runs only during a grace period of up to 120 days
Microsoft's RDS client access license documentation covers the full rules.
How to Install RDS CALs
- Install the Remote Desktop Licensing role on a supported Windows Server.
- Activate the license server in RD Licensing Manager.
- Select Install Licenses and enter the key from your Bcdkey email.
- Choose the matching version, CAL type and quantity.
- Set the licensing mode to Per User or Per Device to match your CALs.
A licensing mode that does not match the installed CALs is the most common cause of grace period warnings. Each product page has detailed steps.
Need a Windows Server License Too?
RDS CALs license access, not the server itself. Browse Windows Server 2025, Windows Server 2022 or the full Windows Server range for the operating system.
Why Buy RDS CALs from Bcdkey?
- Genuine Microsoft User and Device CALs for Windows Server 2016 to 2025
- One-time purchase, with no subscription to renew
- Instant delivery by email, with keys saved in My Account
- Help from our team if installation does not complete
- Volume orders through the Bcdkey B2B wholesale program
RDS CAL FAQ
Are these RDS CALs a one-time purchase?
Yes. Every RDS CAL in this category is a one-time purchase with no subscription.
Can I use 2025 RDS CALs with Windows Server 2019?
Yes. RDS CALs work with their own version and older session hosts.
Can I use 2019 RDS CALs with Windows Server 2022?
No. Newer session hosts need CALs of the same or a newer version.
Do I need Windows Server CALs as well?
Yes. Each user or device needs a Windows Server CAL in addition to the RDS CAL.
Can I mix User and Device CALs?
Each RD Session Host uses one licensing mode, so keep one CAL type per host or collection.
Need help with installation?
Open a support ticket and our team will help.