How to Install and Activate an RDS Licensing Server
Applies to: Windows Server 2019, 2022 and 2025.
RD Licensing stores and issues eligible RDS CALs. Installation of the role does not activate the server or install CAL packs automatically.
RDS deployments require Windows Server licensing, the correct RDS CAL model and secure access design. Administrative RDP sessions are not a replacement. Review managed RDS hosting at networkmanager.info.
Prerequisites
- Obtain authorized RDS CAL documentation.
- Choose a stable licensed server.
- Confirm domain and firewall connectivity.
- Decide Per User or Per Device according to entitlement.
Procedure
Step 1: Install role
Add RD Licensing tools.
Install-WindowsFeature RDS-Licensing -IncludeManagementToolsStep 2: Open Licensing Manager
Run licmgr.exe from the server or management workstation.
licmgr.exeStep 3: Activate server
Use the Microsoft-supported activation wizard and the organization’s agreement details.
Step 4: Install CAL pack
Enter only authorized licence-program information and verify version compatibility.
Step 5: Configure Session Hosts
Set licensing server and mode through the RDS deployment or Group Policy.
Verification
Review role state and use RD Licensing Diagnoser for deployment warnings.
Get-WindowsFeature RDS-Licensing
Get-Service TermServLicensingRollback
Do not uninstall or deactivate the licence server until Session Hosts use a replacement and CAL records are handled through the authorized licensing process.
Licensing and security notes
CAL rights and activation methods depend on the purchasing agreement. Never publish licence keys or agreement numbers.
