How to Install Remote Desktop Services (RDS) Roles
A guide to setting up the Session Host and Licensing roles on Windows Server.
To enable multiple users to connect to a Windows Server simultaneously, you must install the Remote Desktop Services roles. This process transforms the server from a standard administrator-only system into a full application server.
Prerequisites
Step 1: Start the Installation Wizard
- Open Server Manager.
- Click on Manage in the top-right corner and select Add Roles and Features.
- Click Next on the "Before you begin" screen.
- Select Role-based or feature-based installation and click Next.
- Select your server from the server pool and click Next.
Step 2: Select Server Roles
- Scroll down the list of roles and check the box for Remote Desktop Services.
- Click Next.
- You can skip the "Features" section by clicking Next again.
- Click Next on the "Remote Desktop Services" overview screen.
Step 3: Select Role Services
This is the most critical step where you define the server's function.
- Remote Desktop Session Host: Check this box. This is the core service that allows users to run desktop sessions.
(Click Add Features if prompted). - Remote Desktop Licensing: Check this box. This is required to issue and manage CALs.
(Click Add Features if prompted). - Click Next.
Step 4: Confirmation and Restart
⚠️ Warning: Installing the Session Host role requires a restart. Ensure you have saved all work and planned for downtime.
- On the Confirmation screen, check the box Restart the destination server automatically if required.
- Click Install.
The server will restart. Upon logging back in, Server Manager will automatically open and complete the installation.
Author Bio
Microsoft Certified Professional
With over 20 years of experience deploying and managing enterprise Windows Server environments, Keloth leads technical implementation at RDS CAL Store. He specializes in Remote Desktop Services infrastructure, secure remote architecture, and helping IT teams seamlessly scale their official licensing.
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