Remote Desktop Server License !free! Jun 2026

| CAL Type | Best For | How It Works | |----------|----------|----------------| | | Users with multiple devices (desktop, laptop, tablet) or shared devices. | One CAL covers one user from any number of devices. | | Per Device | Users who always use the same device (e.g., shift workers, kiosks, thin clients). | One CAL covers one device used by multiple users. |

Properly configuring Remote Desktop Services (RDS) requires selecting between Per User or Per Device Client Access Licenses (CALs), activating the license server via Server Manager, and configuring the licensing mode to match. Common troubleshooting includes verifying license server settings via Group Policy and managing the 120-day grace period. For detailed activation steps, see the Microsoft Learn guide . License Remote Desktop session hosts | Microsoft Learn remote desktop server license

Best for: Shift-work environments (like call centers or hospitals) where multiple employees share the same workstations. Per User CAL Per Device CAL To a user (Active Directory) To a physical device Tracking Tracked by the license server Tracked and enforced by the server Revocation Not possible Up to 20% can be revoked Enforcement Not strictly enforced (compliance based) Electronically enforced (connection blocked if empty) The License Server Role | CAL Type | Best For | How

✅ For most businesses with standard office workers, Per User is simpler to manage. For manufacturing floors, labs, or hot-desking, Per Device may be more cost-effective. | One CAL covers one device used by multiple users