Remote Desktop Services Licensing Jun 2026

On your server → Run gpedit.msc → Navigate to: Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Remote Desktop Services → Remote Desktop Session Host → Licensing

This is managed through .

You’ve just set up a shiny new Remote Desktop Services (RDS) environment. Users are connecting, everything works perfectly. Then, one day—usually day 121—chaos. “The remote session was disconnected because there are no Remote Desktop License Servers available.” remote desktop services licensing

Remote Desktop Services (RDS) licensing is a critical framework used by Microsoft to manage and regulate user or device access to remote desktops and applications hosted on Windows Server. To ensure your environment remains compliant, every user or device connecting to an RD Session Host requires a Client Access License (CAL). 1. Types of RDS CALs

Each person gets their own badge. No matter if they enter from their laptop, their home PC, or their phone, they only need one badge. This is perfect for modern, roaming workers. On your server → Run gpedit

Many companies forget this honeymoon ends. Once those 120 days are up, the doors lock instantly. Users will suddenly see an error saying no license server is available, and productivity stops. Real-World "Moral of the Story"

Sound familiar? RDS Licensing is one of the most misunderstood and frustrating parts of Windows Server administration. Let’s fix that. Then, one day—usually day 121—chaos

A common point of confusion is the difference between these two.

If your RD Licensing Server goes down, your RDS Hosts will usually continue to function for a short time, but eventually, they cannot validate connections.