Microsoft SQL Server Guide

Microsoft SQL Server is relational database server software. It offers tools for data storage, management, analysis and reporting.

Microsoft SQL Server

Microsoft SQL Server Standard Edition (Server/CAL)

Microsoft SQL Server Standard Edition is relational database server software offering tools for data storage, management, analysis and reporting.

This product operates on a server/CAL licensing model and includes one server licence. Under this model, you will need a separate licence for each client (client CAL) or device (device CAL) that accesses the server.

Client Access Licences

A Microsoft SQL Server user or device CAL is required for each user or device accessing or using Microsoft SQL Server Standard Edition (Server/CAL). No other version of Microsoft SQL Server requires client access licences.

Microsoft SQL Server User CAL

Microsoft SQL Server User Client Access License (CAL) authorises one user to access Microsoft SQL Server from any device when the server is deployed using the Client/Server mode. (for example, when an employee accesses the server from a computer at work and another at home).

Microsoft SQL Server Device CAL

Microsoft SQL Server Device Client Access Licence (CAL) authorises one computer to access Microsoft SQL Server when the server is deployed using the Client/Server model. Any number of users can use the device (for example, a shared workstation).

System Requirements

See Hardware and Software Requirements for Installing SQL Server