Windows Server 2012 R2 64bit VM Domain Controller and CALS

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rlischer

rlischer

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We have a network of 40 computers, the current Domain Controller is Win 2003 Server which is close to end of life. We now have a new vmware EXSI Server and I want to install Windows 2012 R2 64bit as a VM in it and migrate over the 2003 Active Directory Services, DNS, and Users/Groups etc... I know nothing about CALS, if I buy none, (yes it's illegal) will the 40 computers still be able to access the network and shared resources as normal? In other words are CALS enforced and looked for by Windows Server 2012 R2?

Thank you!
 
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Alabalcho

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Your "extra" computers might be able to use the network (they will get IP addresses from DHCP server), but they won't be able to log-in to the domain (and therefore will be blocked from network resources protected by the domain rights).

/off: You've spend thousands on your new hardware, why you look to save $1000 from licenses?
 
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rlischer

rlischer

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I figured I can get Windows 2012 R2 2 CPU for around $800, I have not looked into the cost of CALS, If I can get 40 CALS for around $1000, I will certainly do that. I didn't realize Microsoft was now enforcing the CALS to the point the Windows 7 Pro machines can't even log into the Domain without a CAL.

Thanks!

 
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Alabalcho

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Microsoft sells (now) CALs in packs of five, about $40/license. You need fifteen more (on top of the 25 the server comes with).
http://www.microsoftstore.com/store?SiteID=msusa&Locale=en_US&Action=DisplayProductSearchResultsPage&result=&keywords=windows+server+2012&sortby=score%20descending&filters=
 
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rlischer

rlischer

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Any idea how CALS are enforced or how to install a CAL? From what I am reading Licensing Manager has been removed from Windows Server. Do I install the CALS on the Server or the Workstation? Is a CAL simply a piece of paper to show when in an Audit from Microsoft?



 
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Alabalcho

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In the past (2003, not sure for 2008), CALs were just piece of paper, and you "honestly" entered details into the server (choosing proper per-device or per-user model). These days, I think (I might be wrong) CALs come with product key which has to be entered "somewhere".

I am using 2012 Essentials, which is fixed at 25 CALs, so I cannot try this ;)
 
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rlischer

rlischer

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I have a feeling I am just going to have to set up a virtual environment for testing using trial versions and see if I am limited to the numbers of Workstations that can join the domain. I guess I could call Microsoft, but that could take just as long. :-/
 
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rlischer

rlischer

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After speaking to a Microsoft Sales rep, it turns out CALS are enforced. If you have a Windows Server 2012 with 5 CALS, a 6th user will get an error and not be able to join the domain. CALS have a key that is entered on the Windows 2012 Server.
 
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