how to install RDS CALs on Windows Server: Quick Guide - Softwarekeep Digital

how to install RDS CALs on Windows Server: Quick Guide

How to Install RDS CALs on Windows Server (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’re setting up a Windows Server for remote access, you’ll need Remote Desktop Services Client Access Licenses (RDS CALs). Without them, your users won’t be able to connect legally or reliably.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through installing RDS CALs on Windows Server, explain license types, and share common FAQs.

What Are RDS CALs?

RDS CALs (Client Access Licenses) are required for users or devices to connect to a Windows Server using Remote Desktop Services (RDS).

  • Per User CAL → One license per person, valid across multiple devices.

  • Per Device CAL → One license per machine, shared by multiple users.

👉 Pro Tip: Always choose the CAL type that fits your business model. For example, offices with shared terminals often use Per Device CALs, while remote workers usually need Per User CALs.

Step-by-Step: Installing RDS CALs on Windows Server

Step 1: Add Remote Desktop Services Role

  1. Log in to your server with administrator rights.

  2. Open Server Manager → Click Add Roles and Features.

  3. Choose Role-based or feature-based installation.

  4. Select your target server.

  5. Under Server Roles, check Remote Desktop Services → Remote Desktop Licensing → Remote Desktop Session Host.

  6. Finish the wizard and restart if required.

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Step 2: Activate the RDS License Server

  1. Go to Server Manager → Tools → Remote Desktop Licensing Manager.

  2. Right-click your license server → Activate Server.

  3. Use Automatic connection in the wizard.

  4. Fill in company details (name, country, contact info).

  5. When activation completes, you’ll see a green checkmark.

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Step 3: Install RDS CALs

  1. In Licensing Manager, right-click the server → Install Licenses.

  2. Select License Program (Retail, Open, CSP, etc.).

  3. Enter your agreement number or license key.

  4. Choose:

    • Product version (e.g., Windows Server 2022/2019).

    • License type (Per User or Per Device).

    • Number of CALs.

  5. Confirm to complete installation.

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Best Practices for RDS CALs

  • ✅ Use newer CALs for older servers (backward-compatible).

  • ❌ Don’t use older CALs on newer servers (incompatible).

  • 🔄 Convert CAL types (User ↔ Device) in Licensing Manager if business needs change.

  • 📅 Remember: Per User CALs expire after 60 days and renew automatically.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use Windows Server 2019 CALs on a 2022 server?
👉 No. CALs must match or be newer than the server version.

Q2: How many CALs do I need?
👉 One CAL per user/device that will connect via RDS.

Q3: Do I need CALs if I only connect locally?
👉 No. CALs are required only for remote sessions.

Q4: What happens if I run out of CALs?
👉 New users/devices won’t be able to log in via RDS until you purchase more CALs.

Q5: Can I mix User CALs and Device CALs?
👉 Yes, but it’s best to keep a consistent license strategy for easier management.

Q6: Where can I buy genuine Microsoft RDS CALs?
👉 You can purchase authentic CALs from trusted providers like softwarekeep.us.

Final Thoughts

Setting up RDS CALs on Windows Server may seem complicated at first, but following these steps will save you headaches down the road.

By activating your license server and installing CALs properly, you ensure compliance,

 

Remote Desktop Services Client Access Licenses (RDS CALs) are essential for enabling remote access to your Windows Server. If you're unsure how to install RDS CALs on your Windows Server, don't worry - this quick guide will walk you through the process step by step.

What are RDS CALs?

RDS CALs are licenses that allow users to access a remote desktop session on a Windows Server. These licenses are required for each user or device that connects to the server. Without RDS CALs, users will not be able to access the server remotely.

Step 1: Open the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager

The first step in installing RDS CALs is to open the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager on your Windows Server. You can do this by searching for "Remote Desktop Licensing Manager" in the Start menu.

Step 2: Connect to the License Server

Once the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager is open, you will need to connect to the license server. Click on the Action menu and select "Connect." Enter the name of the license server and click "Next."

Step 3: Install RDS CALs

After connecting to the license server, you can now install the RDS CALs. Click on the Action menu and select "Install Licenses." Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.

Step 4: Activate the Licenses

Once the RDS CALs are installed, you will need to activate them. Click on the Action menu and select "Review Configuration." Follow the prompts to activate the licenses and ensure they are properly configured.

Step 5: Verify License Installation

After activating the licenses, it's important to verify that they have been installed correctly. You can do this by checking the License Server Dashboard in the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager.

Conclusion

Installing RDS CALs on your Windows Server is a crucial step in enabling remote access for users. By following this quick guide, you can easily install and activate RDS CALs to ensure smooth and secure remote desktop connections.

 

stability, and smooth remote access for your team.

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