Windows Server 2022

What is Windows Server 2022?

Windows Server is an operating system by Microsoft that specializes in running servers. Servers are computers that typically operate within the client-server network and handle requests from clients on the network. Server operating systems like Windows Server 2022 allow external applications to run on the hardware, such as a mail server or a print server.

Windows Server 2022 Standard or Datacenter?

Want to buy Windows Server 2022 but don't know which version you need? You can choose between two versions of Microsoft Windows Server: Standard Edition and Datacenter Edition. One of the main differences between them is that WIndows Server Datacenter allows an unlimited number of virtual machines, while with the Standard Edition you can only use 2. See more differences in the table below:

When will support for Windows Server 2022 end?

We advise you to always make sure you purchase a Windows Server version that receives adequate support from Microsoft. The support could be standard (updates) or extended support (security). Usually the standard support ends first. See below when Microsoft support ends for Windows Server.

Standard support end date: 13-10-2026

Extended support end date: 14-10-2031

CALs for Windows Server 2022

What is a CAL license? CAL refers to "Client Access License" which is a license that provides users or devices with access to Windows Server 2022. You can choose between the following types of CALs:

What is a User CAL? 

With a User CAL license you pay for each user who accesses the server. For example, if one of your employees needs access to the server via their laptop, iPad, smartphone and/or PC, that user needs a User CAL license. CALs are not included when you acquire Windows Server, therefore you need to purchase them in addition to the Server license.

What is a Device CAL?

Device CAL licensing means that you pay for each device that accesses the server. Device CALs are the best solution if you want to use Windows Server on one device only or if you have fewer devices than users who need access to the server.

What are CALs for Remote Desktop Services (RDS)? 

The third type of CAL licenses are RDS CALs (Remote Desktop Services).They are also called  "remote CAL servers". RDS CALs are usually used by administrators or employees who need to remotely access the server. For example, hybrid or remote employees need RDS CALs. Here too you can choose between User and Device RDS CALs. The idea behind them is the same as with the CALs above but RDS provides remote access to the server.

Please note that CAL licenses are NOT included with Windows Server 2008, 2012, 2016, 2019 or 2022 and must be purchased separately.