How RDS Licensing Works: An Overview

What is RDS Licensing?

RDS Licensing is the system Microsoft uses to manage and provide access to its Remote Desktop Services. The licensing process ensures that organizations have the appropriate licenses for users or devices connecting to the RDS infrastructure. As it is a critical component in managing and providing remote desktop access to users in a Windows Server environment it is essential to know how it works.

Here's how RDS licensing works:

1. Types of RDS Licenses

RDS CALs, aka Client Access Licenses , can be assigned in two ways:

· User CAL: This license allows a specific user to access RDS from any device. It is ideal for scenarios where individual users need flexibility to connect from multiple devices, such as desktops, laptops, or tablets.

· Device CAL: This license is assigned to a specific device, allowing multiple users to access the RDS server from that device. It is suitable for environments where several users share a single workstation.

2. Licensing Process

1. License Server: You must install and activate the RDS License Server role on a Windows Server to manage the distribution of CALs. The License Server is then responsible for managing and issuing RDS CALs to users or devices.

2. Activating License Server: Once the License Server role is installed, you must activate it through the Microsoft Licensing website, via a phone call, or automatically if internet access is available.

3. Installing CALs: Following activation, you can install the purchased RDS CALs on the License Server. This process usually involves entering a license key provided by Microsoft. These CALs will then be distributed to users or devices as they connect to RDS.

4. Issuing CALs: When a user or device connects to an RDS session, the RDS License Server issues a CAL if one is available. The License Server tracks the usage of each CAL to ensure compliance.

3. Grace Period

Upon first installation of the RDS role, there is a 120-day grace period during which no RDS CALs are required. This allows you to configure and test your RDS environment without immediate licensing concerns. After the grace period, proper RDS licensing must be in place.

4. License Enforcement

· Per User: The License Server doesn’t strictly enforce per-user licensing; it simply tracks the number of issued User CALs. You need to ensure you have enough User CALs purchased to cover all users.

· Per Device: The License Server actively tracks the devices and ensures each device has a valid Device CAL.

5. License Types

· Permanent: Regular CALs are permanently assigned until manually revoked or expired.

· Temporary: Temporary CALs might be issued when a new user or device connects to the RDS for the first time. These typically last for 90 days and are then replaced by a permanent CAL if available.

6. Licensing Compliance

Compliance is crucial. The License Server tracks the number of issued CALs to ensure you don’t exceed your purchased licenses. It’s important to ensure uninterrupted access. While User CALs are not strictly enforced, Device CALs are closely monitored to ensure each device has a valid license. The License Server can produce reports to help track usage and compliance.

7. High Availability

For environments where uptime is critical, RDS License Servers can be configured in high availability modes. This ensures that even if one License Server fails, another can continue issuing licenses.

8. External Connector License

For scenarios where users are external (e.g., partners or customers), an External Connector License may be more appropriate than individual CALs.

9. Session Hosts and Licensing Modes

The RDS Session Host must be configured to use the correct licensing mode (Per User or Per Device) and be pointed to the correct License Server.

How RDS licensing Works – All Done

Remember, this remains a high-level overview. As the specifics can vary depending on your environment and Microsoft licensing agreements, it is always a good idea to consult with a licensing expert or Microsoft representative to ensure full compliance and optimal configuration.

Enhancing RDS with TSplus

While RDS provides a robust framework for remote access, TSplus offers solutions that extend and simplify the management and usage of RDS. Here is how TSplus can enhance your remote desktop experience:

TSplus Remote Access

TSplus Remote Access offers a cost-effective way of using traditional RDP, providing seamless remote desktop access with easy configuration and administration and the option for device and operating system-agnostic HTML5 access . It supports a wide range of devices and allows you to publish applications or desktops with minimal setup.

TSplus Advanced Security

Security is a top priority in any remote desktop environment. TSplus Advanced Security enhances your RDS environment with features such as multi-factor authentication, IP address restrictions and comprehensive access control, ensuring that your remote connections are secure.

TSplus Server Monitoring and Load Balancing

For businesses that require high availability and scalability, TSplus Load Balancing distributes user sessions across multiple servers, ensuring optimal performance and reliability, even during peak usage times.

TSplus Remote Support

TSplus Remote Support simplifies remote troubleshooting and assistance, allowing IT support teams to connect to user sessions quickly and resolve issues without the complexity of traditional RDS support tools.

Conclusion to How RDS Licensing Works

Understanding how RDS licensing works is essential for maintaining a compliant and efficient remote desktop environment. By leveraging TSplus products, you can enhance your RDS setup with improved security, simplified management, and greater flexibility. Whether you are a small business looking for cost-effective remote access or a larger organization needing advanced features, TSplus offers solutions tailored to meet your needs.

For more information on how TSplus can transform your remote desktop experience, visit tsplus.net .