Configure Licensing Mode for Remote Desktop Services (RDS) Print

Configure Licensing Mode for Remote Desktop Services (RDS)

To ensure proper operation of Remote Desktop Services in a Windows Server environment, you must set the appropriate licensing mode (Per User or Per Device) and specify the license server. This can be done manually via Server Manager or centrally using Group Policy (GPO).

Method 1: Configure via Server Manager

1. Open Server Manager on the RDS host.
2. Go to the Remote Desktop Services section.
3. Select Overview in the left navigation pane.
4. Click Edit Deployment Properties in the Tasks menu.
5. Open the RD Licensing tab.
6. Choose the desired licensing mode:
   • Per User – ideal for dynamic user environments
   • Per Device – better for fixed workstation deployments
7. Enter the license server name and click OK.

Method 2: Configure via Group Policy (GPO)

1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to the following path:

Computer Configuration
 └─ Policies
     └─ Administrative Templates
         └─ Windows Components
             └─ Remote Desktop Services
                 └─ Remote Desktop Session Host
                     └─ Licensing

3. Double-click Set the Remote Desktop licensing mode.
4. Enable the policy and choose Per User or Per Device.
5. Click OK to apply.

Note

GPO-based configuration is ideal for large-scale deployments or when you need to enforce consistent licensing settings across multiple RDS servers.