In this article, we will take a look at differences between CAL (Client Access License) and Per-core licensing from MS SQL.
Information in this article applies to Safetica ONE 10 or older.
- Per CAL means you need a license for every user accessing SQL Server: CAL = Client Access License.
- Per Core means you need a license for every core of the machine where SQL Server is running, independent of how many user access the SQL Server.
Choosing the right licensing generally depends on how big is the environment.
In case you have 30 endpoints, it's cheaper to use CAL licensing. Around 60 endpoints, the price is usually equal for CAL and Core options. Above 60, per Core licensing seems to be better.
To have better overview of which of these two options is better, you can refer to unofficial license calculator.
For more accurate pricing please contact Microsoft support.
MS SQL vs. Safetica
In case your environment is within 200 endpoints, you have an option to use MS SQL Express, which installation is included within Safetica installation package.
Above 200 endpoints, we are recommending the latest version of MS SQL.
For additional details regarding requirements, please visit our KB: Safetica system requirements and compatibility overview