Suppose you have a web app that connects to the SQL Server instance using a PREDEFINED SQL Server user (typically an ‘sa’ user). This is the ONLY user that actually connects to the database. However, your web app may have thousands of app users . So – how many users do you count for the SQL Server Client Access Licensing model ? ONE or one THOUSAND? Microsoft says – one THOUSAND. You need a CAL for every user of the app, even though there is no direct connection between the user and SQL server. Microsoft uses the term “multiplexing” such a scenario.

With a processor licensing model, you would need to pay for each processor (nowadays, each CORE) on the database server. With this model, you can enjoy UNLIMITED Client Access Licensing.

Anuj holds professional certifications in Google Cloud, AWS as well as certifications in Docker and App Performance Tools such as New Relic. He specializes in Cloud Security, Data Encryption and Container Technologies.

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Anuj Varma – who has written posts on Anuj Varma, Hands-On Technology Architect, Clean Air Activist.