Introduction

The RDS (Remote Desktop Services) solution for Windows Server 2019 enables multiple users to access the server remotely and securely. This is especially useful for organizations seeking centralized desktop or application delivery, remote workforce support, and efficient user management.
The 50 User CAL edition allows up to 50 users to connect simultaneously under a compliant license.

System Requirements

Before proceeding with installation, confirm these prerequisites:

  • Windows Server 2019 Standard or Datacenter edition
  • Minimum 4 GB RAM (8 GB or more recommended for performance)
  • Administrator privileges and stable network connectivity
  • Sufficient disk space to host user profiles and applications
  • Latest Windows Server updates installed

For full official guidance from Microsoft, refer to: Remote Desktop Services

Download RDS for Windows Server 2019

Since Windows Server 2019 includes the RDS roles natively, you just need to enable them rather than download separately.

Steps:

  1. Open Server Manager.
  2. Select Manage → Add Roles and Features.
  3. Choose Remote Desktop Services installation.
  4. Opt for Standard deployment (unless you have advanced needs).
  5. Select the server that will host the roles and continue.

Install Remote Desktop Services

Follow this process to install the required RDS roles:

  1. In the wizard, pick the roles:
    • RD Connection Broker
    • RD Web Access
    • RD Session Host
  2. Assign each role to the appropriate server (often the same server for smaller deployments).
  3. Proceed through the wizard and click Install when ready.
  4. Restart the server when the installation completes.

Tip: For larger deployments, it’s best practice to separate Session Host roles onto a dedicated server.

Activate RDS Licensing

Once roles are installed, set up and activate your license server:

  1. Within Server Manager, navigate to Remote Desktop Services → Overview.
  2. Under Deployment Overview, select RD Licensing.
  3. Right-click your license server and choose Activate Server.
  4. Select Automatic connection for ease, then finish the wizard.

Set Up 50 User CAL

After activation, install your User CALs:

Steps:

  1. Launch RD Licensing Manager.
  2. Right-click the license server and select Install Licenses.
  3. Choose the license program (e.g., Retail Purchase).
  4. Enter your License Key Pack ID obtained from Indigo Software.
  5. Choose User CAL and complete the wizard.

Next, configure license mode via PowerShell:

Set-RDLicenseConfiguration -LicenseServer “YourServerName” -Mode PerUser

This ensures the server counts users, not devices.

Test and Verify Setup

After setup, test the environment to confirm all parts work:

  1. On a client machine, press Windows + R, type mstsc, and press Enter.
  2. Enter the server’s IP or hostname.
  3. Log in with a standard user account.
  4. On the server, open RD Licensing Manager and verify CAL usage.
  5. Ensure the user session launches applications or desktops without error.

If it all works smoothly, your RDS deployment with 50 User CALs is ready for production.

Troubleshooting Tips

Here are common issues and solutions:

IssueSolution
Connection refusedConfirm RDP port (3389) is open and listening.
Licensing server not detectedAdd your license server via Group Policy or Server Manager.
CALs show UnassignedRestart the “Remote Desktop Licensing” service and reboot if needed.
User sees black screenDisable GPU acceleration or update graphics drivers.
Sessions disconnect frequentlyCheck network stability, session host health, and resource usage.

For more detailed troubleshooting, see:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/remote/remote-desktop-services/rds-troubleshoot

Video Tutorial

Here’s a video walkthrough for RDS setup on Windows Server:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkggXE5e2yk

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many users can connect with this license?
Up to 50 users can connect simultaneously, as the license grants 50 User CALs.

2. Can I mix User CALs and Device CALs in the same deployment?
Yes, technically you can, but mixing types in one deployment is not recommended for clarity and compliance.

3. Do the CALs expire over time?
No, the CALs are perpetual unless the vendor expressly specifies otherwise.

4. Can I relocate the license server or move CALs to another server?
Yes — you can use the “License Migration” feature in RD Licensing Manager.

5. Will Windows Server 2019 Standard edition support 50 users?
Yes — Standard edition supports RDS with User CALs, including up to 50 users in this scenario.

6. Where can I purchase additional CALs if I need them?
You can purchase more from Indigo Software:
https://indigosoftwarecompany.com/