Microsoft Remote Desktop Services 2016 Device CAL

Microsoft Remote Desktop Services 2016 Device CAL – license and control device access centrally. Now available.

With the Microsoft Remote Desktop Services (RDS) 2016 Device CAL, you license a specific device for access to the RDS functions of a Windows Server 2016. This makes particular sense in environments with changing users on the same PC, such as production, warehouse, kiosk or training scenarios. The Device CAL makes it easier to assign access and helps you use the terminal server roles in a legally compliant way.

Use central provision of applications as RemoteApp or full desktop sessions, manage policies from one place and take the load off workstation IT. Updates run on the server, deployments are standardised, and access can be secured with security mechanisms such as Network Level Authentication (NLA) and TLS. Thanks to easy activation via the RD Licensing server, you quickly get from planning to productive use.

Features

• Device-based access licence: One CAL per device that accesses Remote Desktop Services – ideal for shared workstations.
• Supported RDS roles: RD Session Host, RD Web Access, RD Gateway, RD Connection Broker and RD Virtualization Host.
• RemoteApp & desktop sessions: Stream applications centrally or provide full desktops.
• Convenient management: Assignment and control via the RD Licensing Manager (RDS Licensing).
• Scalable: Capacity can be flexibly expanded with additional Device CALs.
• Security features: Support for NLA and TLS depending on server configuration.
• Redirection: Printer, drive and clipboard redirection can be controlled via policies.
• Proven platform: Stable for terminal server workloads under Windows Server 2016.

Benefits & value

The RDS 2016 Device CAL is cost-effective and easy to manage when several people use the same device. It provides clear licence assignment, enables a consistent working environment and reduces maintenance effort through central administration.

• Cost-optimised for shift work and shared PCs.
• Central app provision reduces installation and update effort.
• Licence-compliant through a clear binding to the accessing device.
• Scales with the growth of your organisation.
• Improved security through server-side control of policies and access.

Compatibility & licence notes

• Version match: This RDS 2016 Device CAL is intended for Windows Server 2016. As a rule, the CAL version must match the server version or be newer.
• Additional licences: For RDS access, Windows Server CALs are required in addition to the Windows Server licence; the RDS CAL is added for terminal server functions.
• Device vs. User: Device CAL = per device, User CAL = per user. Choose Device CALs for shared workstations. Mixing both CAL types in one environment is possible.
• Licensing service: Activation and management are handled via the RD Licensing server (internet or telephone activation).
• Provision: You receive a product key along with instructions. Installation and assignment are done on the licence server, not on the client.
• Language note: RDS CALs are language-neutral; server and client language can be chosen freely.

Alternatives & recommendations

Planning the foundation for your RDS environment or an upgrade? These options may suit you:

• Windows Server 2016 Standard – Matching server platform for RDS 2016.
• Windows Server 2019 Standard – For modernised environments (requires RDS 2019 CALs).
• Windows Server 2022 Standard – Current generation (requires correspondingly new RDS CALs).

System requirements

Get the Microsoft Remote Desktop Services 2016 Device CAL now and get started with centrally provided desktops and applications.