Hi guys, I just felt that is time to ask here the questions since on multiple places for the same question i got multiple answers. For a a win2008r2 server that has has 20 pc's joined in the domain do we need CAL licenses ans what kind of licenses? On the server there is no aplication only a shared folder where we store files.

You need a CAL for every authenticated session. This means that any users accessing your shared folder must have CAL. The only scenario wher you would not need CAL's is where anonymous users would access your server, for example you configure your server as a web server for anonymous access. With web server with authenticated access (for example SharePoint), you would again need CALs. It is best that you get in touch with Microsoft partner. You may also contact Microsoft directly. Where I live, we can contact Microsoft on the free phone that is used for Windows activation. We just need to key in different extension at the announcement message.

Allready done, every time i get another answer. SO if a pc joins the domain but does not use that share location does not need CAL?

If a user logs on (authenticates) to the server, to access the services of that server (eg to access the shared folder, or use the printserver), then that user (or the device which the user is using) requires a Windows Server CAL (or the equivalent of a Windows Server CAL eg Core CAL or E CAL or whatever). For this reason, SBS typically sold bundled with 25 CALs (as an example). More information: http://www.microsoft.com/licensing/about-licensing/client-access-license.aspxDon (Please take a moment to "Vote as Helpful" and/or "Mark as Answer", where applicable. This helps the community, keeps the forums tidy, and recognises useful contributions. Thanks!)

Hi, For licensing related issue, youd better contact Microsoft licensing team. In the United States and Canada, you may call the licensing team directly at 1-800-426-9400 (select option 4), Monday through Friday, 6:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. (PST) to speak directly to a Microsoft licensing specialist. In this way, you will know the detailed information about license. Worldwide customers can use the Guide to Worldwide Microsoft Licensing Sites http://www.microsoft.com/licensing/worldwide.aspx to find contact information in their locations. Thank you for your understanding. Regards, Arthur Li TechNet Community Support

Hi, For licensing related issue, youd better contact Microsoft licensing team. In the United States and Canada, you may call the licensing team directly at 1-800-426-9400 (select option 4), Monday through Friday, 6:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. (PST) to speak directly to a Microsoft licensing specialist. In this way, you will know the detailed information about license. Worldwide customers can use the Guide to Worldwide Microsoft Licensing Sites http://www.microsoft.com/licensing/worldwide.aspx to find contact information in their locations. Thank you for your understanding. Regards, Arthur Li TechNet Community Support