Microsoft RDS CALs for Windows Server deployments

Remote Desktop licensing, made simple.

Buy Windows Server RDS CALs for 2025, 2022, 2019, and 2016. Choose the right version and CAL type for your environment, complete checkout securely, and receive your license details with setup instructions within 15 minutes after successful payment.

Shop RDS CALs Get Licensing Help
Fast license delivery User & Device CALs PayPal secure checkout
15 min license delivery
2025–2016 Windows Server versions
User & Device CAL options available
Support pre-sales guidance available
Choose by server version

Find the right RDS CAL version for your Windows Server

Start with the Windows Server version used in your Remote Desktop Services deployment. Higher-version RDS CALs include downgrade rights for earlier supported Windows Server RDS environments.
View all RDS CALs
Microsoft Windows Server 2025 RDS CAL product image Most Flexible 2025 Windows Server 2025 RDS CALs
Best for current Windows Server 2025 RDS deployments or businesses that want the broadest downgrade flexibility.
  • For Windows Server 2025 RDS environments
  • Covers 2022, 2019, and 2016 with downgrade rights
Buy 2025 RDS CALs
Microsoft Windows Server 2022 RDS CAL product image Popular Choice 2022 Windows Server 2022 RDS CALs
A practical option for Windows Server 2022 Remote Desktop Services deployments and earlier supported environments.
  • For Windows Server 2022 RDS environments
  • Covers 2019 and 2016 with downgrade rights
Buy 2022 RDS CALs
Microsoft Windows Server 2019 RDS CAL product image For 2019 Deployments 2019 Windows Server 2019 RDS CALs
For organizations licensing established Windows Server 2019 Remote Desktop Services environments.
  • For Windows Server 2019 RDS environments
  • Covers 2016 with downgrade rights
Buy 2019 RDS CALs
Microsoft Windows Server 2016 RDS CAL product image For 2016 Deployments 2016 Windows Server 2016 RDS CALs
For businesses maintaining Windows Server 2016 Remote Desktop Services access.
  • For Windows Server 2016 RDS environments
  • Designed for Windows Server 2016 deployments
Buy 2016 RDS CALs
Not sure which version to buy? Choose the RDS CAL version that matches your Windows Server RDS environment. A higher-version RDS CAL can be used with earlier supported Windows Server versions, but an older RDS CAL cannot be used with a newer server version.
Remote Desktop Services basics

What an RDS CAL is used for

Remote Desktop Services allows people to connect to a Windows Server and use hosted desktops, applications, files, or business systems. An RDS CAL licenses that remote access separately from the Windows Server operating system.
Quick licensing check For Remote Desktop Services, you need the Windows Server environment and the correct RDS CALs for remote access.

What RDS enables

RDS lets users connect remotely to server-hosted desktops, applications, and internal systems instead of working only on a local machine.

What an RDS CAL covers

An RDS CAL gives a user or device the right to access Remote Desktop Services on a licensed Windows Server deployment.

What it does not include

An RDS CAL does not include the Windows Server operating system, application licenses, hosting, or server configuration services.

Where CALs are managed

In a standard RDS deployment, the RD Licensing role manages installed RDS CALs while RD Session Host runs the remote sessions.
Important: Match the RDS CAL version to your Windows Server Remote Desktop Services environment. Higher-version RDS CALs can support earlier eligible server versions, but older CALs cannot be used for newer Windows Server deployments.
Before you order

A clearer way to buy Windows Server RDS CALs

RDS CAL Store keeps the buying process focused on the details that matter: your server version, your access model, and the number of users or devices you need to license.

01

Confirm your server version

Match the CAL version to the Windows Server RDS environment you are licensing.

02

Choose the access model

Decide whether licensing should follow named users or specific devices.

03

Select the quantity

Buy the CAL count that fits your deployment today, with room to add more later.

Browse RDS CALs Use CAL Calculator
Why RDS CAL Store

A specialist store for Windows Server RDS CAL purchases

RDS CAL Store is built for businesses that want a focused, practical way to buy Remote Desktop Services CALs without sorting through unrelated software, unclear product options, or unnecessary licensing noise.
Focused catalog for Windows Server RDS CAL buyers.
Clear product paths by server version and CAL type.
Guidance available when your deployment needs a quick review.

Built around RDS CALs

The store is structured around Windows Server Remote Desktop Services licensing, so buyers can quickly find the version and CAL type they need.

Cleaner product choices

Product pages are organized by Windows Server version, with clear User CAL and Device CAL options for common business deployments.

Business-ready order records

Your order details remain available from your account dashboard, helping your team keep purchase information accessible for future reference.

Pre-sales guidance when needed

If you are unsure about the correct version, CAL type, or quantity, contact us before ordering and we will help you review the purchase path.
Need a quick check before purchase? Share your Windows Server version, number of users or devices, and whether the environment uses named users or shared machines.
Contact Us
User CALs vs Device CALs

Choose whether access follows a user or a device

RDS CALs are purchased as either User CALs or Device CALs. The right option depends on how people connect to your Remote Desktop Services environment.
Simple rule Choose User CALs when access follows people. Choose Device CALs when access follows shared or fixed machines.
Licensed by person

RDS User CALs

User CALs are usually best when the same named users need Remote Desktop access from more than one device.
Best when:
  • Named users connect from different devices
  • Access is tied to employees or regular users
  • The environment uses Active Directory
Important: For Windows Server 2019 and newer, User CALs are best suited to Active Directory environments.
Licensed by endpoint

RDS Device CALs

Device CALs are usually best when Remote Desktop access is tied to shared computers, terminals, or fixed workstations.
Best when:
  • Multiple people use the same workstation
  • Access is tied to fixed devices or terminals
  • The server is in a workgroup environment
Workgroup setup? If you do not use Active Directory, Device CALs are usually the more practical choice.
Still unsure which CAL type fits? Tell us whether users connect from multiple devices or whether several people share the same machines. We can help you choose before purchase.
Use CAL Calculator Ask Before You Buy
After checkout

Clear next steps after your RDS CAL order

After successful payment, your order moves into a simple delivery flow. You receive your license details, setup instructions, and access to your order record from your account dashboard.
Delivery target License details and setup instructions are sent within 15 minutes after successful checkout.
01

Order confirmation

You receive confirmation after checkout, using the billing details entered during purchase.
02

License email

Your license details and setup instructions are sent to the email address used at checkout.
03

Dashboard access

A copy of your order details remains available in your account dashboard under Order Summary.
04

Support if needed

Contact us if you need help locating your order details or understanding the setup instructions.
Use accurate checkout details Please enter the correct business and contact details at checkout. These details are used for registration and order records.
Included after checkout
  • License details for your order
  • Setup instructions
  • Account dashboard order record
Technical guidance

RDS licensing guides for Windows Server admins

Use our guides to review common Remote Desktop Services licensing tasks before or after purchase. They are written for administrators who want clear, practical steps without unnecessary licensing jargon.
View RDS Guides
Installation

Install RDS CALs

Follow the basic steps for preparing RD Licensing and installing RDS CALs on Windows Server. Read installation guide CAL Type

User CAL vs Device CAL

Compare the two CAL types and decide whether remote access should follow people or devices. Compare CAL types Version Planning

Choose the right version

Review how to match your RDS CAL purchase to the Windows Server version used in your environment. Review version guide Troubleshooting

Resolve common issues

Check common RDS licensing questions, setup checks, and next steps for administrators. View troubleshooting help
Helpful for planning and setup These guides are meant to support product selection, installation planning, and common RDS licensing questions. For purchase-specific help, contact us before ordering.
Purchase confidence

Policy-backed confidence for business RDS CAL purchases

RDS CAL purchases are easier to manage when the order path, records, and support policy are clear. RDS CAL Store keeps purchase details organized and gives buyers practical options if something needs review.
Clear purchase policies Built around practical order records, eligible exchange handling, and guidance before or after purchase.

60-day exchange option

Eligible unactivated licenses may qualify for a one-time exchange between User and Device CALs, or a version change, within 60 days of purchase.

Ownership warranty

Every purchase includes a lifetime warranty on license ownership, giving your business confidence in the records tied to your order.

Secure checkout

Orders are placed through secure online checkout. Use accurate business and contact details so your order records are prepared correctly.

Guidance when needed

Contact us before ordering if you are unsure about version, CAL type, quantity, or whether your deployment needs a quick review.
Keep your order records accurate Please enter accurate business and contact details at checkout. These details are used for registration and order records, and they help your team keep the purchase organized for future reference.
Procurement FAQ

Questions buyers ask before purchasing RDS CALs

A focused FAQ for IT buyers, administrators, consultants, MSPs, and procurement teams reviewing version fit, ownership, deployment use, and exchange options.
Review before checkout These answers cover common purchase questions before you move to the shop page or contact support.
How does your pricing compare to traditional CSP or procurement channels?
Traditional CSP and procurement channels often include pricing floors, distributor layers, reseller margins, and longer purchasing workflows. RDS CAL Store operates as an independent volume licensing specialist, allowing us to source Microsoft RDS CALs at scale and price them more efficiently.
Will these licenses pass a formal Microsoft audit or SAM review?
Our licenses are supplied as standard Microsoft volume licenses for compliant use in supported environments. If your organization is currently going through, preparing for, or responding to a formal Microsoft audit or Software Asset Management (SAM) review, please contact us before purchasing so we can confirm the right license format for your setup and compliance requirements.
Can IT consultants or MSPs purchase RDS CALs for clients?
Yes. IT consultants, MSPs, and system integrators can purchase RDS CALs for client deployments. Please mention the correct customer or client details in the order details or order notes when placing the order.
Do these CALs include downgrade rights for older server versions?
Yes. Higher-version RDS CALs include downgrade rights for earlier supported Windows Server RDS deployments. For example, Windows Server 2025 RDS CALs can be used with Windows Server 2025, 2022, 2019, and 2016 RDS environments. Older RDS CALs cannot be used with newer Windows Server versions.
Will these licenses expire or require renewal?
No. These are perpetual RDS CALs and do not require monthly or annual renewal. Once purchased, the licenses remain valid for the supported lifetime of the Windows Server RDS version they are purchased for, including eligible downgrade use.
Is there a time limit to activate the license after purchase?
No. There is no short activation deadline after purchase. You can keep the license details safely and activate the RDS CALs when you are ready to deploy them on a supported Windows Server RDS environment.
Do I own the license permanently?
Yes. These are perpetual RDS CALs. Once purchased, you retain ownership of the license for the supported lifetime of the Windows Server RDS version it is purchased for, including eligible downgrade use.
Are these licenses region-restricted?
No. Our RDS CALs are approved for worldwide deployment and are not region-restricted. You can install and deploy these licenses on servers located anywhere in the world.
Can I use these licenses on cloud platforms?
Yes. You can use these RDS CALs for Windows Server Remote Desktop Services deployments on cloud environments such as AWS, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Microsoft Azure, third-party cloud hosting providers, dedicated servers, or on-premises servers, as long as the server environment supports standard RDS CAL installation and activation.
What if I misplace my license details?
If you misplace your license details, log in to your account on our website and go to your order summary section. You can view and download your license details directly from your dashboard at any time.
What if I order the wrong CAL type or server version?
If you purchase the wrong server version or need to switch between User and Device CALs, you can exchange eligible unactivated licenses from your account dashboard within 60 days of purchase. Go to your order summary, choose the correct product, and pay any applicable price difference. Once the exchange is completed, the original license key is permanently blacklisted to prevent unauthorized use.
Can these CALs be transferred to a different server?
Yes. These RDS CALs can be moved to another server when you replace or upgrade your server hardware. To remain compliant, the original server must be fully decommissioned or wiped before the licenses are activated on the new deployment.
Buyer feedback

Feedback from business and IT buyers

Customer feedback gives new buyers a practical view of the ordering experience, including communication, order handling, and post-purchase assistance.
What buyers look for Smooth ordering, clear license details, and support when a purchase needs clarification.
“Have been working with this Team for the past 5 years, no problem with their licenses so far, they've also provided with assistance when needed, great team!” FC fragtelcorp Windows Server 2025 - 5 User RDS CAL
“This was the 8th set of RDS CAL purchased in last 12 months. Total of 250 CAL so far. Every purchase went very smooth and the CAL worked great. We have 2-3 more sets that will be purchasing over next 60 days.” CS cksystems55 Windows Server 2016 - 50 User RDS CAL
“License arrived quickly and activated without issue. Would definitely order another pack if we need to expand.” MV morvonis Windows Server 2025 - 5 Device RDS CAL
Useful feedback for technical buyers RDS CAL buyers often want reassurance that the order process is clear and that help is available when needed. These reviews highlight the kind of purchase experience many business buyers look for.
Ready to order

Ready to choose your Windows Server RDS CALs?

Go to the shop page when you know what you need, use the calculator if you want help with quantity, or contact us before purchase if your deployment needs a quick review.
Shop RDS CALs Use CAL Calculator Ask Before Buying
Server version Confirm whether your deployment uses 2025, 2022, 2019, or 2016.
CAL type Decide whether access should follow named users or specific devices.
Quantity Choose the CAL count that fits your current users or devices.
Before checkout: Please enter accurate business and contact details. These details are used for registration and order records.
James Whitfield Verified

Ordered 5 Device CALs for our 2025 server and received the keys within minutes. Activation was completely smooth through the RDS Licensing Manager. Exactly what we needed — no hassle, no delays. Will be ordering more as we expand.

Windows Server 2025 — 5 Device RDS CAL "
Priya Nambiar Verified

We needed 10 User CALs urgently for a client rollout. The keys were in my inbox before I even finished a coffee. Legitimate licences — verified against Microsoft's activation servers without any issues. Highly recommended for IT resellers.

Windows Server 2022 — 10 User RDS CAL "
Marcus Brennan Verified Repeat Order

Third time buying from this store. Consistent, fast, and the pricing is genuinely better than anywhere else I've found. The 20-pack for 2019 covered our entire remote desktop environment. Activated without a single problem.

Windows Server 2019 — 20 Device RDS CAL "
Sandra Kowalczyk Verified

Used the coupon code from the banner — saved a decent amount on 50 User CALs. Delivery was fast and the licence activated perfectly on our Windows Server 2016 environment. Customer support also responded quickly when I had a question.

Windows Server 2016 — 50 User RDS CAL "
Rajan Mehta Verified

As an IT admin for a mid-size company I'm cautious about licence sources. These activated cleanly via VAMT and the keys checked out as genuine. Delivery within 5 minutes of payment via PayPal. Will be the go-to supplier for our team going forward.

Windows Server 2025 — 10 User RDS CAL "
Claire Fontaine Verified

Bought 5 User CALs for a small office server. The checkout process was simple and I received the licence key almost immediately. Activated first try. Really impressed with how straightforward the whole experience was — no fuss at all.

Windows Server 2022 — 5 User RDS CAL "
Tom Gallagher Verified

Needed 20 Device CALs in a rush for a new terminal server deployment. Ordered at 11pm and had working keys by 11:03pm. That's the kind of service you need in IT. Genuine licences, quick delivery — hard to ask for more.

Windows Server 2025 — 20 Device RDS CAL "
Anita Osei Verified

I manage licencing for a healthcare provider and compliance is critical for us. These CALs verified correctly via Microsoft's licence compliance tools. Ordered the 50-pack for our 2022 server and will definitely reorder when we scale up.

Windows Server 2022 — 50 Device RDS CAL "
Henrik Larsson Verified

Good price, fast delivery, legitimate keys. What else is there to say? We've been running Windows Server 2019 for years and needed to top up our Device CALs. Took less than 10 minutes from ordering to having a fully licensed environment.

Windows Server 2019 — 10 Device RDS CAL "
David Nganga Verified

Our company migrated from 2016 to 2025 server and needed fresh CALs quickly. The downgrade rights info on the site was helpful too. Ordered the 10-pack User CALs, activated without any issue. Solid reliable supplier.

Windows Server 2025 — 10 Device RDS CAL "
Rachel Sutton Verified

Refreshingly easy process. I was a bit nervous buying licences online but the PayPal protection gave me confidence. Keys arrived fast and worked straight away on our 2022 RDS environment. Would recommend to anyone needing CALs quickly.

Windows Server 2022 — 5 Device RDS CAL "
Lorenzo Esposito Verified

We run a small accounting firm on Windows Server 2016 with around 15 remote users. Bought the 20 User CAL pack and it covered everything. The licensing process was straightforward. Good value and trustworthy supplier — already recommended to two colleagues.

Windows Server 2016 — 20 User RDS CAL "
Amy Chowdhury Verified

Purchased 50 User CALs for a large-scale RDS deployment at a manufacturing site. Every single key activated without a problem. Saved significantly compared to buying through the usual channels. Very happy with the purchase and the speed of delivery.

Windows Server 2025 — 50 User RDS CAL "
Stefan Baumann Verified

Fast, reliable, and priced better than any Microsoft reseller I've used before. The 5 Device CAL pack for 2019 was exactly what our branch office needed. Activated within minutes. I've bookmarked this site for all future CAL purchases.

Windows Server 2019 — 5 Device RDS CAL "
Michelle Tran Verified

I manage IT for a school district and we needed 20 User CALs for our staff remote access server. Bought on a Friday afternoon and had everything activated before end of day. Great experience — genuine keys at a fair price.

Windows Server 2022 — 20 User RDS CAL "
Oluwaseun Adeyemi Verified Repeat Order

Second order from this store. Previously bought 2022 CALs, this time went with 2025 for a new server. Both times the experience has been flawless — fast delivery, genuine keys, and easy activation. This is my default supplier now.

Windows Server 2025 — 5 User RDS CAL "
Gary Pemberton Verified

Bought 50 Device CALs for a large remote working setup on Server 2016. Everything went through smoothly. The site made it easy to identify the right licence type — User vs Device explained clearly. Very professional operation. Will be back.

Windows Server 2016 — 50 Device RDS CAL "
Isabelle Moreau Verified

Our accounting software runs over RDS and we needed to add seats quickly. The 10 User CAL pack for 2019 was perfect and the price was significantly lower than going through a traditional reseller. Smooth activation, fast delivery — exactly what I needed.

Windows Server 2019 — 10 User RDS CAL "
Kevin Dlamini Verified

Needed 20 Device CALs urgently for a client site running Server 2025. Keys were delivered in under 3 minutes. Activated straight away through RD Licensing Manager. The whole process couldn't have been simpler. Top marks all round.

Windows Server 2025 — 20 User RDS CAL "
Natasha Ivanova Verified Repeat Order

I run a small MSP and this is now my go-to for RDS CALs. Competitive pricing, quick fulfilment, and zero issues with activation across multiple client deployments. The 5 Device CAL pack for 2022 is particularly good value for smaller client sites.

Windows Server 2022 — 5 Device RDS CAL "
Philip Hargreaves Verified

Used the downgrade rights — bought 2025 CALs and applied them to our 2019 server. The product page explained this clearly which saved me from buying the wrong version. Great that a store actually provides this kind of helpful detail. Very satisfied.

Windows Server 2025 — 10 Device RDS CAL "
Fatima Al-Rashid Verified

Ordered 20 User CALs for Server 2016 to support remote access for our finance team. The process was quick and the keys valid. Having PayPal as a payment option made me feel comfortable about the purchase. Everything worked exactly as described.

Windows Server 2016 — 20 Device RDS CAL "
Brian Cassidy Verified

Bought the 50 User CAL pack for our Server 2019 estate. Took slightly longer than expected — maybe 8 minutes — but the keys all worked perfectly. Price was roughly half what our usual supplier quoted. Definitely switching all our CAL purchases here.

Windows Server 2019 — 50 User RDS CAL "
Yuki Tanaka Verified

Simple, fast, legitimate. We needed 5 Device CALs for a new branch server running 2022. The whole purchase took under 5 minutes and the activation was instant. Price was competitive and the site was easy to navigate. No issues whatsoever.

Windows Server 2022 — 5 Device RDS CAL "
Carlos Mendoza Verified

Our Server 2025 deployment needed 50 Device CALs for a large warehouse terminal setup. Ordered, paid via PayPal, keys in inbox within minutes. All activated without issue. The volume pricing was very reasonable. Absolutely no complaints — will order again.

Windows Server 2025 — 50 Device RDS CAL "