SQL Server 2022 Standard can be licensed in two ways – either with a combination of server and access licences (CALs), or core-based with core licences. This sounds more complicated than it is:
Licensing via combined server and access licences (CALs)
- Each (!) server – physical or virtual – running SQL 2022 Standard requires a server licence.
- In addition, you need either a User CAL or a Device CAL for each user or device with access to SQL Server 2022.
- Please note that access licences (CALs) are version specific. For example, you are not allowed to access SQL Server 2022 with a 2017 CAL. However, the other way round (downward) is possible: You could access SQL 2017 with a 2022 CAL.
Licensing via core licences
- Each physical or virtual processor core must be licensed – with a minimum of 4 cores.
- Virtual instances with core licensing require an active Software Assurance (SA) or Subscription.
- There is no need for access licences, neither User nor Device CALs. Any user and end device is allowed to access SQL Server 2022.
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