Install word on a server

Question

Is it possible with the correct licensing and in a business enviroment to install MS office on a server which the the clients on the business's network can access?

Answer 1

You will need one license of Microsoft Word for each desktop device that will access it and use it from the Terminal Server.

So you can't get just one license and share it via Terminal Services. While that's technically possible, it's legally a violation of the terms of the license. Below are some supporting references.

From the Microsoft SMB (small & medium business) blog.

• Answer to a question on how Microsoft Office is licensed in a Terminal Services environment and why OEM Office doesn’t cover it, in plain English. Excerpt:

Microsoft Office is a desktop application. As such, you need (1) Microsoft Office license per desktop using the Microsoft Office software. Terminal Services does not change the number of devices accessing and using a software application, it merely provides another avenue to access the software through. So licensing Microsoft Office doesn't change at all regardless if Terminal Services is used or not. You still need one license per device accessing and using the Microsoft Office application.

From Microsoft TechNet:

• Deploy the 2007 Office system on a Terminal Services-enabled computer. Excerpt:

Evaluating licensing requirements

You cannot run all versions of the 2007 Office system on a Terminal Services-enabled computer. Be sure that you understand and meet the following licensing requirements before you deploy the 2007 Office system on a Terminal Services-enabled computer.

You can run the 2007 Office system on a Terminal Services-enabled computer only if your version of the 2007 Office system uses a volume license product key and does not require activation. If you install a retail version, pre-installed version (PIPC), or original equipment manufacturer (OEM) version of the 2007 Office system on a Terminal Services-enabled computer, you will see the following error when you try to run a 2007 Office system program:

This copy of Microsoft Office cannot be used on Terminal Server. Please contact your local authorized Microsoft retailer for more information.

Also:

• (a little old) How to install Microsoft Office on Terminal Server. He discusses the licensing issue, and how he bought multiple copies to sit on the shelf to satisfy the legal aspect.

Answer 2

It's definitely possible yes. Terminal services would be the technical solution.

But concerning the licencing, I still think you need an individual office licence for each individual user that's accessing the server and using office on it.

For more details see this article.