RDS stands for 'Remote Desktop Services'.ĬAL stands for 'Client Access License'. It is also known as a 'Terminal Services CAL'. It is essential for Work-from-Home licensing and running desktop applications in the Cloud. RDS CAL is a license that you need to access a Remote Desktop on Windows Server. Azure WVD runs on Windows 11 and doesn't require RDS CALs. You only need RDS CALs for virtual desktops using Windows Server. Do I need RDS CALs for Windows Virtual Desktop? You need RDS CALs or equivalent licenses in Azure if you provide access to a Windows Server graphical desktop or stream an application using RDS, Citrix or similar technologies. Still confused? Talk to an Azure licensing expertįrequently asked questions about RDS CALs in Azure Do I need RDS CALs in Azure?.Technical limitations for RDS User CALs in a workgroup.How to take your RDS CALs to other providers.How to take your RDS CALs to Amazon AWS and Google Cloud?.Can you use your existing CALs in Azure?.

Windows Server client access licensing basics.

Remote Desktop Services - when do you need them?.

Frequently asked questions about RDS CALs in Azure.

You also don't need Windows Server CALs (Client Access Licences) for the Azure instances. But what about RDS CALs?

Do you need to license Remote Desktop Services CALs in Azure? You would typically 'pay-as-you-go' for Microsoft Windows Server licences in Azure.

Remote desktop license manager