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Using Windows 10 Pro as a server requires CALs for authentication.

Using Windows 10 Pro as a server requires CALs for authentication.

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Saintrow9345
Member
213
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM
#1
Hi everyone! This question has been circulating a while now, and I'm still trying to get a clear answer. I manage several Windows 10 Pro servers, each with different roles. Server A hosts two VMs that also run Windows 10 Pro. It only hosts these VMs and provides backup access via Server B. VM 1 manages around 56 APs, a firewall, and seven switches; VM 2 handles 85 cameras. Server B is the host for Server A's VMs when needed, acting mainly as an archive for backups. Server C connects to Server B and stores backups from Server A. All connections use SMB sharing, and I access them via RDP. There’s only one user currently using these servers.

Do I need any CALs for these Windows 10 Pro servers? I know I need them for the 2016 version, but I can’t find guidance elsewhere. Also, switching to Linux isn’t an option due to cost and the risk of losing access if I retire or pass away.
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Saintrow9345
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM #1

Hi everyone! This question has been circulating a while now, and I'm still trying to get a clear answer. I manage several Windows 10 Pro servers, each with different roles. Server A hosts two VMs that also run Windows 10 Pro. It only hosts these VMs and provides backup access via Server B. VM 1 manages around 56 APs, a firewall, and seven switches; VM 2 handles 85 cameras. Server B is the host for Server A's VMs when needed, acting mainly as an archive for backups. Server C connects to Server B and stores backups from Server A. All connections use SMB sharing, and I access them via RDP. There’s only one user currently using these servers.

Do I need any CALs for these Windows 10 Pro servers? I know I need them for the 2016 version, but I can’t find guidance elsewhere. Also, switching to Linux isn’t an option due to cost and the risk of losing access if I retire or pass away.

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Butterfly1416
Senior Member
701
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM
#2
Calories aren't required, so you're not obligated to use them. They exist only if you're checked by Microsoft.
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Butterfly1416
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM #2

Calories aren't required, so you're not obligated to use them. They exist only if you're checked by Microsoft.

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Cryogenetik
Junior Member
8
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM
#3
I understand there isn't a strict requirement, but opportunities for a BSA audit still exist in our industry. If we ever require them, we'll be ready. Would you like to know if they're really necessary in this situation? Thanks!
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Cryogenetik
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM #3

I understand there isn't a strict requirement, but opportunities for a BSA audit still exist in our industry. If we ever require them, we'll be ready. Would you like to know if they're really necessary in this situation? Thanks!

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Omer_Akkas_V2
Junior Member
15
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM
#4
No, I'm not running a domain. I don't host anything myself.
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Omer_Akkas_V2
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM #4

No, I'm not running a domain. I don't host anything myself.

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OMGITSDOGE
Junior Member
13
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM
#5
we manage several domains, though these aren't linked via domain joining; instead, they rely on a workgroup setup. All their DHCP and DNS services come through the firewall, which retrieves DNS information from our ISP (Google).
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OMGITSDOGE
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM #5

we manage several domains, though these aren't linked via domain joining; instead, they rely on a workgroup setup. All their DHCP and DNS services come through the firewall, which retrieves DNS information from our ISP (Google).

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Ezocity
Junior Member
49
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM
#6
They shouldn't require a calibration since those setups don't connect to a Windows server.
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Ezocity
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM #6

They shouldn't require a calibration since those setups don't connect to a Windows server.

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Dialatz
Member
187
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM
#7
That’s exactly what I was considering, but when there’s no one discussing it, it can make you doubt. Could you share a reference that might help our CEO understand?
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Dialatz
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM #7

That’s exactly what I was considering, but when there’s no one discussing it, it can make you doubt. Could you share a reference that might help our CEO understand?

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Amtrak10
Senior Member
639
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM
#8
CALs apply specifically to Windows Server SKUs and standard server applications such as SQL Server, SharePoint, and Exchange. When your Windows 10 Pro box functions as a server without needing those CALs, you won’t require them.
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Amtrak10
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM #8

CALs apply specifically to Windows Server SKUs and standard server applications such as SQL Server, SharePoint, and Exchange. When your Windows 10 Pro box functions as a server without needing those CALs, you won’t require them.

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ArchangelZ21
Member
209
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM
#9
Contact Microsoft appears to be the most sensible approach...
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ArchangelZ21
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM #9

Contact Microsoft appears to be the most sensible approach...

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MaddyForce18
Member
93
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM
#10
Thanks, that's what i thought but now i'm glad i got another person saying the same as wizardry. Do you happen to have a link or pdf showing that you don't need that though? I need something to provide the ceo that we don't need it for this basic stuff.
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MaddyForce18
07-23-2025, 04:46 AM #10

Thanks, that's what i thought but now i'm glad i got another person saying the same as wizardry. Do you happen to have a link or pdf showing that you don't need that though? I need something to provide the ceo that we don't need it for this basic stuff.

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