Remote Desktop Services Alternative - Swap RDS for TSplus

Remote Desktop Services (RDS) has long been a pillar of Microsoft’s enterprise and server environments. However, its limitations in cost, complexity and flexibility have prompted many businesses to search for smarter alternatives.

For over 15 years, TSplus has provided a simpler, more affordable and equally secure approach to remote desktop access. In this article, we explore how TSplus serves as a full-featured Remote Desktop Services alternative , from connection brokering to licensing, security and web access.

What are Microsoft Remote Desktop Services?

Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is a common tool in a Windows Server environment. It is built for a server to host multiple client sessions simultaneously. Used in combination with the native Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) client, it enables users to access, potentially, remotely access or control another PC, server or virtual machine.

The aims of this are varied. Here are some of the range:

from support teams being able to deploy software and updates to any company workstation without leaving their desk,
to users accessing thin clients, BYOD or other machines for remote and hybrid work,
as well as farm monitoring and more.

Understanding the Core Limitations of RDS

Before delving any deeper, it is important to understand why many organizations are reconsidering their use of Microsoft RDS:

What is the Global Cost Outlay?
What are the RDS Security and Compatibility Issues?

What is the Global Cost Outlay?

High Licensing Costs

RDS requires Client Access Licenses (CALs) for each user or device, in addition to server licenses.

Complex Setup

Deploying RDS requires configuring multiple components like the Gateway, Broker and Web Access.

Hardware & Maintenance Burden

Often demands dedicated Windows Server infrastructure and inevitable ongoing patching.

High Purchase to Usability Turn-over

Installation, implementation, external interventions and staff training need to be taken into account globally.

What are the RDS Security and Compatibility Issues?

Limited Cross-Device Compatibility

Best optimised for Windows; requires configuration for Linux, macOS and mobile support.

Security Vulnerabilities

Without extra configuration, open RDP ports can expose systems to brute-force and ransomware attacks.

Corporate-Friendly, but What About SMEs?

RDS is suited for complex enterprise scenarios not necessarily SMBs or lean IT teams.

How TSplus Offers a Simpler and Smarter RDS Alternative

TSplus was developed to directly address the limitations of RDS while offering the same core functionalities in a leaner, more accessible way. Below, explore how TSplus meets and even supersedes major RDS components.

Remote Access without the Complexity
Secure Gateway Built In
Browser-Based Access with No Client Required
Smarter Session Management than RDS Broker
Remote App Experience - Without the RDS Licensing
Licensing Model That Makes Business Sense
Multi-OS Remote Desktop Web Access Alternative

Remote Access without the Complexity

TSplus makes remote desktop and application access simple:

No CALs or layered licenses
Works with any Windows OS (Pro, Home, Server)
Set up in under 15 minutes
One central software package includes all major RDS roles

See how fast you can deploy TSplus Remote Access .

Secure Gateway Built In

RDS requires you to configure its Remote Desktop Gateway to communicate via Remote Desktop Protocol. Then only, it enables those with the right credentials to remotely access virtual or session-based workstations, resources, apps and more. TSplus, by contrast:

Comes with a built-in HTTPS web server;
Supports SSL certificate integration out of the box;
Eliminates open RDP ports worries, providing TLS secure encryption and more;
Enables Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for users, as an integrated add-on.

Importantly, f or enhanced security, among the software suite, you will find TSplus Advanced Security for robust application publication protection. It is available both with in the online store bundles and as a standalone product to reinforce the security of any application server .

Browser-Based Access with No Client Required

TSplus includes an HTML5 Web Client that eliminates the need for local RDP clients. Indeed, it opens up the world of Remote Access to mobile devices thanks to its use of HTML5 rather than an installed connection client.

Using your favorite browser on your tablet, iPhone or other smartphone, you can connect to your workstation and apps remotely. This means freedom to connect and work from anywhere with Wi-Fi, Internet or a data connection, on almost any device.

Users can:

Access desktops and apps via any modern browser.
Use any device: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux.
Avoid VPNs or extra software installations.

This is a game-changer for mobile teams, BYOD environments and hybrid workplaces.

Smarter Session Management than RDS Broker

Whether you are a few desks or offices away in the same building or on the other side of the planet, Remote Desktop Services mean you can access and fix a remote computer as if it were in front of you. Instead of complex Connection Broker configuration, TSplus offers:

Instant links to connect to published apps or desktops;
Session persistence or disconnection, and reconnect options according to settings;
Granular users and groups settings and configuration;
Load balancing with TSplus Enterprise plans;
Unattended access options for off-hours support via TSplus Remote Support.

It is session management, streamlined.

Remote App Experience - Without the RDS Licensing

One of the popular features of RDS was RemoteApp, to open remote applications as if they were local. Then Microsoft recommended Citrix XenApp instead and prices for such a function sky-rocketed. TSplus Web App replicates this feature seamlessly. Indeed, remotely published apps open in a separate window as though they had been opened on the local device. This flawless visual behaviour when using applications on a remote device means users can see little to no difference in appearance or experience between opening and using a local app versus a remote app.

Remote applications open in individual windows.
Users experience minimal UI disruption.
Browser-based, it works on non-Windows devices via HTML5 client.

No extra setup, no additional CALs.

Licensing Model Which Makes Business Sense

Making it more affordable than RDS, TSplus options include:

Flat pricing (based on concurrent users, not individual CALs);
Perpetual or subscription options available;
No additional charges for features like Gateway, Web Access or 2FA;
Optional remote support and security tools mean you add only what you need.

Explore the full pricing breakdown on the TSplus store page.

Bespoke Multi-OS Remote Desktop Web Access Alternative

As well as TSplus Web App, Web Application Portal and Remote App, its HTML5 client for connections via any browser, TSplus has a built-in Web Server. Remote Access enables users Windows, Linux and Mac to connect and most importantly is customisable to company colours Of course, authorized users are granted access at log-in with their credentials. Integrated Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) gives users and companies extra peace of mind.

RDS vs TSplus: Functional and Financial Comparison

Feature	Microsoft RDS	TSplus
Licensing Model	Requires CALs	Flat-rate, concurrent users
Setup Time	Complex, multi-role	< 15 minutes
HTML5 Browser Access	Limited, client dependent	Included
Security Gateway	Requires separate setup	Built-in
2FA	External integration needed	Included
OS Compatibility	Made for Windows	Entirely Cross-platform
Cost (long-term)	High	Low

Supporting Remote Work & Thin Clients in 2025

TSplus is a natural fit for evolving work environments:

Supports remote teams, field staff and offshore developers;
Is compatible with thin clients and BYOD strategies;
Enables centralized management and software updates;
Offers desktop sharing and remote support options (via TSplus Remote Support).

This makes it an ideal solution for modern, cost-conscious and distributed IT operations.

Best Remote Desktop Software Alternative

Among the great variety of software on the market competing with Microsoft RDS are big names such as Citrix. For a fraction of the price tag, TSplus performs essential Remote Desktop tasks and features to make remote desktop access accessible to any business or company at any time. It supplies secure and efficient remote access and remote control of PCs and servers anywhere, from anywhere and at any time.

Remote Desktop Services may have paved the way for enterprise remote access, but TSplus is reshaping its future. With built-in security, simplified deployment, flexible licensing, and a modern user experience, TSplus is a complete RDS alternative tailored for today’s remote-first, security-conscious, budget-aware organisations.