Remote Desktop Services licensing
Buy Microsoft RDS CALs for Windows Server.
Remote Desktop Services CALs — formerly Terminal Services — for Windows Server 2025, 2022, 2019, and 2016. Every user or device connecting to your deployment needs one, and we help you choose the right version, CAL type, and quantity.
Focused on Remote Desktop Services licensing, with support before and after purchase. License details are sent by email, within 5 minutes of checkout.
Choose your server version
Newer CALs cover older servers; older CALs won't run on newer ones.
Customer reviews
What businesses and administrators have said about our licenses, service and support.What is RDS and why are RDS CALs required?
Remote Desktop Services lets users connect to Windows Server; a CAL licenses each user or device.What RDS does
Why CALs are needed
How CALs are managed
Choose the right RDS CAL type
User CALs when access follows people; Device CALs when it follows shared machines.RDS User CALs
RDS Device CALs
Frequently Asked Questions
Downgrade rights, renewals, transfers, order corrections, installation help, and refunds.Licensing and compatibility
7 questionsCan I use newer RDS CALs on older server versions?
Yes, you can. These RDS CALs include downgrade rights, which means a higher-version RDS CAL can be used with earlier supported versions of Windows Server. Windows Server 2025 RDS CALs, for example, can be deployed on Windows Server 2025, 2022, 2019, and 2016 RDS environments.
Please note that downgrade rights only work in one direction. An older RDS CAL cannot be used on a newer version of Windows Server, so we recommend purchasing the version that matches your newest server.
Will these RDS CALs expire or require renewal in the future?
No, these licenses do not expire. Our RDS CALs are perpetual licenses, which means a single one-time purchase with no monthly or annual renewal fees.
Once purchased, your licenses remain valid for the supported lifetime of the Windows Server version they were purchased for, including any eligible downgrade use.
Do I need to install these RDS CALs within a certain time period?
No, there is no deadline to install or activate your licenses. You are free to purchase now and deploy later. Simply keep your license details in a safe place and install the RDS CALs whenever your server environment is ready.
Can I use these RDS CALs in any country?
Yes, these RDS CALs are approved for worldwide deployment. They can be installed and activated on servers located anywhere in the world, without any regional limitations.
Can I use these RDS CALs on cloud servers?
Yes, these RDS CALs can be used on cloud servers. They support Remote Desktop Services deployments on on-premises servers, dedicated servers, and cloud-hosted environments. The licensing works the same way regardless of where your servers are located.
Do the RDS CALs also include a Windows Server operating system license?
No, a Windows Server operating system license is not included. An RDS CAL is an access license that allows your users or devices to connect to Remote Desktop Services. The operating system itself is licensed separately.
If you are unsure what your deployment requires, our team is happy to review your setup before you order.
Can I install the same RDS CALs when I upgrade my server or format it?
Yes, you can install the same RDS CALs again after you format your server or move to new hardware. Simply reinstall the licenses once your server environment is ready.
If you are moving to a different server, your original server should be fully decommissioned or wiped before the licenses are activated on your new deployment. This keeps your licensing compliant.
Refunds
1 questionCan I get a refund if there is a problem with my order?
Yes, every order is covered by our 60-Day 100% Moneyback Policy. If your license is not delivered, cannot be accessed, was supplied incorrectly, or has a licensing issue, our support team will resolve it through re-delivery, correction, replacement, or technical assistance.
In the rare case that a covered issue cannot be resolved, we will process your full refund.
Ordering and corrections
6 questionsCan I change my RDS CALs if I ordered the wrong option or my project requirements changed?
Yes, you can. If you ordered the wrong server version, need to switch between User CALs and Device CALs, or your requirements have changed, you can swap it from your account or contact us within 60 days of purchase, and we will correct the order for you.
Exchanges between User and Device CALs of the same value are free of charge. If the option you are switching to costs more than your original order, you only pay the difference.
What do I get with my purchase and how fast is it delivered?
You will receive a complete licensing package that includes:
- RDS CAL license document (PDF)
- Setup guidance and next steps
- Video installation guide
- Invoice and order record
These are sent to your email within 5 minutes after successful checkout.
The license document names your company as the licensee, or your name if no company name is provided at checkout.
What should I do if I ever lose my RDS CAL license document?
Your license document is never lost. If you created an account at checkout, your license document and order details are always available in your account order summary section. Otherwise, contact our support team with your order email and we will resend your license package.
To make this easiest, look for the “Create an account to manage your licenses (optional)” checkbox on the checkout page. You can also create an account later using the email address from your order, and your license details will be available there.
Can I add more RDS CALs to my server in the future?
Yes, you can add more RDS CALs at any time. Additional CALs can be purchased whenever your team grows or more users need access, and they are installed alongside your existing licenses on the same licensing server.
There is no need to replace the CALs you already own. Your new licenses simply increase the total number of users or devices that can connect.
Will I get help installing the RDS CALs or resolving configuration issues?
Yes, our support team is available to assist you after purchase. Whether you need help installing the licenses or configuring your Remote Desktop licensing server, we will guide you through the process so your environment is set up correctly. If you prefer, we can also handle the installation for you.
Can IT consultants or MSPs purchase these RDS CALs for their clients?
Yes, IT consultants, MSPs, and system integrators regularly purchase RDS CALs from us on behalf of their clients. Orders can be placed as usual, and our team can assist with selecting the right CAL type and quantity for each client environment.
Compliance
2 questionsCan I buy these RDS CALs for a Microsoft audit or SAM review?
Yes. Audits and SAM reviews require proper assessment and guidance before purchasing. We recommend contacting us before you place your order so we can review your RDS setup and confirm the correct CAL type and quantity for your requirements.
Do these RDS CALs offer VLSC compatibility?
VLSC-compatible options are available. If VLSC compatibility is a requirement for your organization, please contact us before purchasing and our team will recommend the correct CAL option for your situation.