How to install Remote Desktop Services CALs on Windows Server 2019?

How to Install RDS CALs on Windows Server 2019

A step-by-step guide to installing the Remote Desktop Licensing role, activating the server, and installing licenses.

Installing Remote Desktop Services (RDS) Client Access Licenses (CALs) on Windows Server 2019 is a two-part process. You first install the Remote Desktop Licensing role and then activate the license server to install your CALs.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

Administrator Access: You must be logged in as an admin on the Windows Server.
Purchased CALs: Have your product key or agreement number ready.
Internet Connection: The server needs a stable connection for activation.

Step 1: Install the Remote Desktop Licensing Role

Open Server Manager and click Manage > Add Roles and Features.
Click Next on the "Before You Begin" screen.
Select Role-based or feature-based installation and click Next.
Choose the server from the server pool and click Next.
On the "Select server roles" page, check Remote Desktop Services, then click Next.
Click Next again to skip the "Features" screen.
On the "Remote Desktop Services" page, click Next.
Select both Remote Desktop Licensing and Remote Desktop Session Host. (Click Add Features if prompted).
Click Next and then Install.
(The server may need to restart).

Step 2: Activate the License Server and Install CALs

Once the role is installed, you can activate the server and add your licenses.

Open Server Manager and navigate to Tools > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Licensing Manager.
In the RD Licensing Manager, right-click on the server name and select Activate Server.
The Activate Server Wizard will open. Click Next.
Select Automatic connection (recommended) and click Next.
Fill in the required company information and click Next. (The server will contact Microsoft's clearinghouse).
Once activation is successful, the wizard may prompt you to install licenses. If not, right-click the server and select Install Licenses.
Click Next on the "Welcome to the Install Licenses Wizard" screen.
Choose the License Program you purchased your CALs through (e.g., Retail Purchase, Select License, Other Agreement) and click Next.
Enter your License Key or Agreement Number and click Next.
Specify the Product Version, License Type (Per User or Per Device), and Quantity.
Click Next. The server will contact Microsoft to install your CALs.

Your installed RDS CALs will now appear in the RD Licensing Manager.

⚠️ Important Next Step:
Installing the CALs is not enough. You must configure the server to use them.
Click here for a guide on How to configure “Licensing Mode” and “License Server to Use”

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