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Configuring Remote Desktop licensing mode is essential for ensuring that your Remote Desktop Services (RDS) environment is compliant and operational. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to configuring licensing mode using different methods to suit various administrative preferences and environments.
Remote Desktop Services (RDS) allows multiple users to connect remotely to a Windows server. To manage these connections legally and efficiently, RDS requires licenses for each user or device that connects to the server. These licenses, known as Client Access Licenses (CALs), are essential for compliance and ensuring that connections are not disrupted due to licensing issues.
A license is assigned to each device that connects to the RD Session Host server. This mode is ideal for environments where multiple users share a limited number of devices. For instance, in a shift-based workplace where several employees use the same computer, a Per Device CAL is more economical and straightforward.
A license is assigned to each user account that connects to the RD Session Host server. This mode is suitable for environments where users access the server from multiple devices, such as a personal laptop, desktop, or mobile device. In organizations with mobile workforces or remote workers, Per User CALs provide flexibility and ease of management.
Selecting the appropriate licensing mode depends on your organization's needs and usage patterns. Factors to consider include the number of users, the number of devices, and the mobility of your workforce. Misconfiguration can lead to compliance issues and interrupted access, making it crucial to evaluate your licensing needs accurately.
Configuring the licensing mode correctly is not just about uninterrupted access; it also ensures that your organization remains compliant with Microsoft's licensing policies. Non-compliance can result in fines and other penalties, so understanding and implementing the correct licensing strategy is critical.
By comprehensively understanding and correctly configuring Remote Desktop licensing, organizations can optimize their RDS environments, ensuring seamless remote access while maintaining compliance and cost efficiency.
Group Policy is a powerful tool for managing settings across multiple computers in an Active Directory environment. Here's how to configure RDS licensing mode using GPO.
Win + R
, type
gpmc.msc
, and press Enter. This opens the Group Policy Management Console (GPMC).
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Licensing
.
Set the Remote Desktop licensing mode
. Double-click to open the policy setting, select
Enabled
, and then choose either
Per User
or
Per Device
licensing mode.
Use the specified Remote Desktop license servers
. Enter the Fully Qualified Domain Name (FQDN) of your RD License server(s).
PowerShell provides a scripting approach for configuring RDS licensing mode, which is particularly useful for automation and bulk changes.
1. Open PowerShell as Administrator: Right-click the Start button and select
Windows PowerShell (Admin)
.
2. Set the Licensing Mode: Execute the following command to set the licensing mode:
powershell :
$RDSMode = "PerUser" # Replace "PerUser" with "PerDevice" if needed
$obj = Get-WmiObject -Namespace "Root/CIMv2/TerminalServices" -Class Win32_TerminalServiceSetting
$obj.ChangeMode($RDSMode)
3. Specify the License Server: Run this command to specify your license server:
powershell :
$LicenseServer = "YourLicenseServerName"
$obj.SetSpecifiedLicenseServerList($LicenseServer)
4. Verify Configuration: To ensure the settings have been applied, use:
powershell :
$obj.GetSpecifiedLicenseServerList()
For environments without Group Policy, the Windows Registry offers a manual way to configure licensing settings.
Win + R
, type
regedit
, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\RCM\Licensing Core
.
LicensingMode
DWORD value: Set
LicensingMode
to
2
for
Per Device
. Set
LicensingMode
to
4
for
Per User
.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\RCM\LicenseServers
. Add a new key with the name of your license server.
Proper configuration often requires addressing common issues that may arise during the setup and operation of Remote Desktop Services (RDS). Here are some frequent problems and how to resolve them:
The RDS grace period allows unlicensed connections for a limited time after initial setup. Typically, this period lasts 120 days, giving administrators time to configure the licensing server and acquire the necessary CALs. If you encounter connection denials after the grace period expires:
Firewall settings can block communication between the RD Session Host and the license server, leading to licensing issues. Ensure that your firewall is configured to allow traffic on the following ports:
Your license server must be activated to issue RDS CALs. Use the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager to:
By proactively managing these common issues, you can ensure a smooth and compliant RDS environment, minimizing downtime and enhancing the user experience. Properly configured and maintained licensing not only ensures legal compliance but also supports seamless and reliable remote desktop access.
For a more seamless remote desktop experience and advanced management features, consider using TSplus. Our solutions offer robust remote access and management capabilities, simplifying your IT infrastructure. Visit TSplus for more information and to explore our remote desktop solutions.
Configuring Remote Desktop Licensing Mode is essential for maintaining a compliant and functional RDS environment. Whether using Group Policy, PowerShell, or Windows Registry, proper configuration ensures that your users can connect without interruption and that your organization stays within licensing requirements.
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