Server License Issue -- Which one do I need?

[Rosee]

We have a file server running Windoes 2000 Small Business Server. One of the application that we are going to purchase is designed to use for server-client environment. Our user really like this feature. This is how it works: install the application on the server and as well as user's workstation, then users will be able to use the application on their own desktop.

I just have a question about the server part. For the client server license (CAL), Which one do I need to buy, Small Business Server CALs or Win 2000 server CALs?

Your help will be appreciated.

 

[AlexIT]

You must have a CAL for evey machine connecting to the server.

So if they are connecting to the OS but NOT using any of the SBS functionality (no Outlook, Sharepoint, etc.) then you COULD TRY to explain to the M$ thumb-breakers you are allowed to use only the Windows 2000 server CAL.

However, since you will have Outlook (or at least Outlook Express) on all of the machines, unless F. Lee Bailey is a close personal friend, buy the SBS CAL.

Alex

 

[lgarner]

If the clients are the same ones that use the file server, then you would have already purchased SBS licenses. You don't need another license for the application, just for the number of clients connecting to the server.

 

[Rosee]

Thanks for help.

We only have 5 SBS license for the file server, which was coming with the initial purchase. At that point, we were puchasing the server for file sharing purpose only. We have a small group of users sharing files on the server.

Now I know that more users would like to use that application once we put it on the server. I thought that more CALs may needed. But just not sure what kind of CALs to buy.

So you think I need to buy more small business server clients. Right???

 

[AlexIT]

Yes, buy more SBS licenses (one for each PC in building...)

Alex

 

[dkediger]

The SBS CALs are the only ones that are valid for the SBS server as thay also license you for the Exchange, Outlook, and SQL components of SBS.

Keep in mind that with SBS 2000 you are limited to 50 users. If your potential use will be greater than that, you should consider upgrading to SBS 2003 which has a 75 user limit or getting the SBS transition pack which will convert your set up to "normal" Windows licenses.