Microsoft SQL Server is the backbone of mission-critical database operations worldwide. Choosing the wrong licensing model can lead to thousands of dollars in overspending or audit penalties.
1. Per Core Licensing Model
- How it works: You license the physical or virtual CPU cores running the database engine. Every physical core requires a license, with a minimum of 4 cores per processor.
- Client Access: Unlimited users and devices can connect without needing CALs.
- Best for: Web applications, customer portals, internet-facing e-commerce systems where total user count is unknown.
2. Server + CAL Licensing Model
- How it works: You license each physical server running SQL Server Standard, plus purchase a CAL for each employee or device accessing the database.
- Best for: Internal departmental applications with a fixed, known number of users (e.g., an internal ERP or HR system with 30 employees).
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