Windows Server 2022 RDS Device CALs (Remote Desktop Services Client Access Licences) allow specific devices to connect to Remote Desktop session hosts, so people can run Windows desktops and apps on your server remotely. Each Device CAL covers one device, no matter how many people use it. That makes it the right choice for shared PCs, thin clients and shift workstations.
Device CAL or User CAL?
| Scenario |
Best choice |
| Several people share one PC or thin client (shifts, reception, labs) |
RDS Device CAL |
| One person connects from a laptop, home PC and phone |
RDS User CAL |
| Fixed number of kiosks or terminals |
RDS Device CAL |
Your RD Licensing server must be set to the matching licensing mode: Per Device for these CALs.
Available Pack Sizes
Choose 5, 10, 20 or 50 devices in the options above. Buy enough for every device that connects to your RD Session Host servers.
Compatibility
- Windows Server 2022 RDS CALs license connections to RD Session Hosts running Windows Server 2022 or earlier.
- They must be installed on an RD Licensing server running Windows Server 2022 or later.
- Hosts running Windows Server 2025 need 2025 RDS CALs.
- RDS CALs are needed in addition to standard Windows Server CALs.
How to Install RDS Device CALs
- Install the Remote Desktop Licensing role on a Windows Server 2022 machine and activate the licence server.
- Open Remote Desktop Licensing Manager, right-click the server and choose Install Licenses.
- Select the licence programme that matches your purchase and enter the licence code from your order email.
- Choose Windows Server 2022 and RDS Per Device CAL, then enter the quantity.
- In Server Manager's RDS deployment properties, or via Group Policy, set the licensing mode to Per Device and point hosts to the licence server.
Full screenshots are in our guide: how to apply and activate RDS CALs on Windows Server.
Need the server itself? See Windows Server 2022 Standard.
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Windows Server 2022 RDS Device CAL FAQ
What happens if I don't install RDS CALs?
Remote Desktop session hosts work during a 120-day grace period. After that, connections are refused until CALs are installed.
Can I mix Device and User CALs?
Not on the same RD Session Host. Each host uses one licensing mode, so choose the type that fits how people connect.
Do 2022 RDS CALs work with Server 2019 hosts?
Yes. RDS CALs are backward compatible with older session hosts, as long as the licence server runs Server 2022 or later.
Do I need RDS CALs for admin access?
No. Up to two simultaneous administrative Remote Desktop connections are allowed without RDS CALs.
Can I move CALs to a new licence server?
Yes. Migrating CALs usually requires reactivation through Microsoft's Clearinghouse. Our support team can guide you.
Order Windows Server 2022 RDS Device CALs in the pack size you need and get remote access licensed today.
