Learn about the differences between CAL (Client Access License) and Per-core licensing for MS SQL.
❗MS SQL licensing only applies to Safetica hosted on-premises.
Learn about the differences between CAL (Client Access License) and Per-core licensing models for Microsoft SQL Server and choose the most cost-effective option when deploying Safetica.
Licensing models overview
- Per CAL (Client Access License)
- You need a license for every user or device accessing the SQL Server.
- Even if your Safetica server connects to SQL through a single service account, Microsoft still treats every user or device that ultimately uses Safetica data as an ‘indirect’ SQL user who must be covered by a CAL (see Microsoft’s multiplexing rule). Learn more in Microsoft Multiplexing - CAL requirements or Microsoft SQL Server licensing guide.
- More cost-effective in smaller environments.
- You need a license for every user or device accessing the SQL Server.
- Per-Core
- You need a license for every physical or virtual core of the machine where the SQL Server is running.
- The number of users or devices accessing the server does not matter.
- More cost-effective in larger environments.
Choosing the right licensing model
Choosing the right licensing generally depends on the size of your environment:
| Environment size | Recommended licensing |
| Up to ~30 users or devices | CAL licensing is usually cheaper |
| Around 60 users or devices | Cost is similar for CAL and Per-core |
| Over 60 users or devices | Per-core licensing usually becomes more cost-effective |
✍️You can use an unofficial license calculator to compare pricing and get a better overview of which of these two options is more suitable for you.
For accurate pricing, contact Microsoft support.
MS SQL requirements for different environment sizes
| Environment size | MS SQL type |
| Up to 250 devices | You can use MS SQL Express, included with the Safetica installation package |
| Over 250 devices | We recommend installing the latest version of MS SQL Server |
For more details regarding server requirements, refer to the System requirements and compatibility overview article.
FAQ
Q: I’m planning to upgrade my database to SQL Server Standard. How many CALs do I need for Safetica?
A: CAL licensing requires a license for every individual user connecting to the server.
In many cases, Per-core licensing may be more affordable because it removes the need to count and manage user licenses.
Q: Safetica uses only one SQL login (Safetica server connects to SQL through a single service account); do I really need more than one CAL?
A: Yes. Microsoft counts every user/device that benefits from Safetica data, even if they connect indirectly through that single login (service account). Learn more in Microsoft Multiplexing - CAL requirements or Microsoft SQL Server licensing guide.