>I understand your frustrations. Are you developing using .NET?

We have been.

That's going to change too.

>
>>rant=on
>>
>>We've been a Microsoft Certified Partner for 10 years.
>>
>>This is our last year. Their Licensing is so insane it is not even humorous.
>>
>>We are in the process of doing an assessment for a major client. This includes giving an estimate of costs for moving onto a web based application.
>>
>>We wanted to make sure we had our bases covered, so we called Microsoft to verify licensing requirements for SQL Server CALs.
>>
>>We've always assumes CALs (or a processor license) were needed to cover any users who authenticate to a SQL server no matter how (windows/forms security/SQL users/etc). We've seen lots of people who argue that this is not the case if a web app uses forms based security, but we prefer to play it safe.
>>
>>Of course, Microsoft agrees with us.
>>
>>But, while they are at it, they also say that as soon as ANY authentication is made to the web site then you also need to have a Windows CAL or external connector license for that user. The fact that the user does not exist in Active Directory, have a windows profile, or use any windows services other than hitting the website and the SQL server data notwithstanding.
>>
>>They have to have a SQL CAL AND a Windows CAL.
>>
>>They gave us an example of AMAZON.COM. According to Microsoft, People who anonimously browse AMAZON do not need a CAL. As soon as they log in to make a purchase, they require SQL and Windows CALs.
>>
>>Lets see... how many million orders will Amazon take online this year times how much SQL processor licenses and Windows CAL licenses for each customer cost...
>>
>>That comes to ...
>>
>>Apache and MySQL if my math is correct.
>>
>>Looks like that is where this assessment is going too.
>>
>>Our support of Microsoft has ended.
>>
>>Even though they have better products and support than others IMHO, their licensing fees are the last straw in considering them.
>>
>>rant=suspend momentarily