Where can I get SQL Server pricing and licensing information?

This topic describes how client access licenses (CALs) work and where stores can get more information about SQL Server licensing and pricing.

Start by visiting the SQL Server 2022 Pricing page on the Microsoft website.

Download the Microsoft SQL Server Licensing Guide, which explains SQL Server licensing in detail, or download the SQL Server 2022 Licensing Datasheet, which provides a 2-page summary of SQL Server licensing. You are strongly encouraged to contact a Microsoft Certified Partner for details on SQL Server pricing and licensing.

How do SQL Server CALs work with RMH?

One of the licensing models available for SQL Server is the CAL licensing model. In this model, stores purchase a server license for each server running SQL Server or its components. In addition, they purchase a client access license (CAL) for each device (Device CAL) or user (User CAL) that accesses SQL Server or its components.

The number of CALs the store needs to purchase depends on how SQL Server and the RMH apps are implemented in the store. A CAL is required for all computers running an RMH app that connects to SQL Server, such as POS terminals and back-office workstations running Store Manager or Central Manager. A CAL is not required for the computer running SQL Server, as long as there are no RMH apps installed on the computer.

The information in the table below is provided as an example only.

Device and apps	CALs required
A stand-alone server running SQL Server	None
A computer running SQL Server plus any RMH app (POS, Store Manager, Central Manager)	1
5 POS terminals running POS	5
2 back office workstations running Store Manager	2
1 back office workstation running Central Manager	1