An industrial software license called a client access license (CAL) enables client computers to use server software services. The majority of commercial desktop applications are licensed such that money is necessary for each installation, but some server products can be licensed so that payment is necessary for each device or user that accesses the service that the software offers.
A Windows Server 2016 instance, for instance, can be accessed by ten different users if ten User CALs are purchased for it.
Do I need client access licenses?
In a legally binding agreement between the owner of the software (the “Licensor”) and the end user or business (the “licensee”), the licensor grants the licensee permission to use the app subject to the conditions set forth in the license agreement.
Commercial apps are licensed to end users or businesses. The consumer retail or “off-the-shelf” products from Microsoft typically employ relatively identical license agreements, allowing the licensee to use the program on one computer while adhering to the standard terms and conditions.
However, Microsoft provides a variety of license plans for organizations that are intended to be affordable, flexible, or both for a number of their products.