Install Remote Desktop Services on Windows Server 2019

Introduction

Remote Desktop Services (RDS) on Windows Server 2019 enables secure, centralized delivery of desktops and apps to remote users. This step-by-step guide covers GUI and PowerShell install, activation, licensing mode, CALs, verification, and security hardening—so IT teams can deploy RDS the right way with genuine licensing.

Need genuine Windows Server licenses or RDS CALs? Browse Indigo Software’s Server category for trusted options

Who this is for

System administrators and MSPs deploying RDS on Windows Server 2019
Organizations migrating from Windows Server 2016 or planning upgrades to 2022 or 2025
Teams standardizing on best practices for licensing and security

Prerequisites and system requirements

Windows Server 2019 installed and updated: If you still need it, follow our Windows Server 2019 installation and activation guide
Local or domain Administrator privileges
Static IP, DNS configured, and server reachable by FQDN
Internet access for activation (or plan for Web/phone activation)
Valid RDS CALs (Per User or Per Device) that match Windows Server 2019
Capacity planning: CPU/RAM/storage sized for expected session count
Optional but recommended:

SSL/TLS certificate for RD Web/Gateway, preferably from a public CA
A dedicated RD License Server role
If starting fresh, see our Windows Server 2022 guide

Common ports

TCP 3389: RDP (do not expose directly to the internet; prefer RD Gateway)
TCP 443: RD Web Access and RD Gateway over HTTPS

Step 1: Add Remote Desktop Services roles (GUI)

Open Server Manager > Manage > Add Roles and Features.
Select Role-based or feature-based installation.
Choose the target server.
Under Server Roles, select Remote Desktop Services.
Add the services you need:
- RD Session Host (RDSH)
- RD Licensing
- RD Web Access (recommended)
- RD Connection Broker (required for Standard Deployment/multi-server)
Complete the wizard and reboot if prompted.

PowerShell quick install (single-server lab/POC)
Run in an elevated PowerShell window:

PowerShellInstall-WindowsFeature RDS-RD-Server,RDS-Licensing,RDS-Web-Access `
  -IncludeManagementTools -Restart

For a standard multi-server deployment, also add:

PowerShellInstall-WindowsFeature RDS-Connection-Broker -IncludeManagementTools

Step 2: Choose deployment type and create a collection

Quick Start: Good for one-box testing or labs.
Standard Deployment: Best for production. Distributes roles (Broker/Web/Session Host) and supports scale-out.

In Server Manager > Remote Desktop Services:

Select Quick Start or Standard Deployment.
For Standard, add servers for RD Connection Broker, RD Web Access, and RD Session Host.
Create a new session collection (e.g., “Prod-Desktop”):
- Publish Full Desktop or specific RemoteApps.
- Assign user groups (e.g., Domain Users or a specific AD group).

Step 3: Activate the RD Licensing server

GUI

Open RD Licensing Manager (licmgr.exe).
Right-click the server > Activate Server.
Choose Automatic, Web, or Telephone activation method.
Complete the wizard.

PowerShell (after Connection Broker is installed)

PowerShellImport-Module RemoteDesktop
Get-RDLicenseConfiguration
# Example: Set per-user licensing and specify license server FQDN
Set-RDLicenseConfiguration -LicenseServer "rd-lic01.contoso.com" -Mode PerUser

Step 4: Install RDS CALs

In RD Licensing Manager, right-click the licensing server > Install Licenses.
Select your program type (Retail, Open/Volume Licensing, etc.).
Enter your License Key Pack ID and complete the wizard.
Confirm CALs appear under the server in licmgr.

Need CALs? Explore Windows Server and RDS options.

Step 5: Configure licensing mode and license server

Method A: Server Manager

Server Manager > Remote Desktop Services > Collections
Actions > Edit Deployment Properties > RD Licensing
Set Licensing mode (Per User or Per Device) and specify the license server

Method B: Group Policy (recommended for domain-joined RDSH)

Open Group Policy Management and edit a GPO linked to the RDSH OU:
- Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Licensing
  - Use the specified Remote Desktop licensing servers = Enabled (enter FQDN)
  - Set the Remote Desktop licensing mode = Enabled (Per User or Per Device)
Run gpupdate /force on RDSH and verify with RD Licensing Diagnoser.

Step 6: Test and verify

From a client, run mstsc and connect to the server FQDN or collection.
Log on with a test user (non-admin).
Confirm full desktop or RemoteApp launch, printing, clipboard, and profile.
In Server Manager > RDS, check health of Session Host, Broker, and Licensing.
If you’re still building your base OS stack, see our Windows Server 2016 guide for older estates

Security hardening checklist

Avoid exposing TCP 3389 to the internet; use RD Gateway over HTTPS 443.
Enforce Network Level Authentication (NLA) on Session Hosts.
Use TLS 1.2+, modern cipher suites, and a trusted certificate for Web/Gateway.
Restrict RDP access to known IPs/VPN; place RDS behind a firewall.
Implement MFA (e.g., NPS Extension for Azure MFA on RD Gateway).
Limit local admin membership; enable Just Enough Administration (JEA) where possible.
Configure session limits and idle timeouts.
Monitor logs: Event Viewer > Applications and Services Logs > Microsoft > Windows > TerminalServices*

Troubleshooting tips

The remote session was disconnected because there are no Remote Desktop License Servers available
- Verify RD Licensing server activation and installed CALs.
- Confirm licensing mode matches CAL type (Per User vs Per Device).
- Check GPO settings and run gpresult /h report.html on the RDSH.
RD Licensing mode not configured
- Set via Server Manager or the GPO paths above; restart Remote Desktop Services.
Firewall or network issues
- Allow TCP 3389 internally and TCP 443 for Web/Gateway.
- Validate name resolution and the SSL certificate chain.
CredSSP or encryption errors
- Update clients and server; ensure TLS 1.2 is enabled and older protocols are disabled.
Reference: Microsoft’s RDS troubleshooting guide

Video tutorial
Prefer a walkthrough? Watch this quick setup video:

Related Indigo Software guides

Install and activate Windows Server 2019

Install and activate Windows Server 2022

Activate RDS on Windows Server 2025 (forward planning)

Deploy Microsoft Exchange Server 2019

Install SQL Server 2019

Install SQL Server 2022

Install Microsoft Project Professional 2024

Install Microsoft Visio Professional 2019

Note: If you support older environments, see:

Windows Server 2016 guide

SQL Server 2016

SQL Server 2017

Microsoft Project Professional 2016

Microsoft Visio Professional 2016

Office Home & Business 2019

Office Home & Business 2021

Office Professional Plus 2016

Mac Office 2016

Microsoft Project Professional 2019

Why Indigo Software

Indigo Software helps organizations deploy Microsoft infrastructure with clear, verified steps and genuine licensing. If you need help sizing CALs or choosing deployment topology, reach out—our team is here to help

FAQ

Do I need new CALs for Windows Server 2019 if I have 2016 CALs?

Yes. RDS CALs are version-specific. Use 2019 CALs for Windows Server 2019.

Which licensing mode should I choose: Per User or Per Device?

Per User for employees using multiple devices; Per Device for shared kiosks/labs.

Can I deploy RDS on a single server?

Yes for small/POC. For production, use Standard Deployment with separate roles for reliability and scale.

How do I scale for many users?

Add Session Hosts, keep CPU/RAM headroom, consider GPU for graphics workloads, and spread roles across servers.

Where can I buy genuine RDS CALs and Windows Server?

Indigo Software’s Server category

Indigo Software is a great place to go for software at a reasonable price. Their customer service is top notch and I highly recommend them to anyone.

Dave Kester

15:56 05 Sep 24

Great company for purchasing software at a very reasonable price. They provided me with excellent support getting the apps I purchased from them transferred to my new computer.

Betty Allman

20:29 03 Sep 24

I always go to Indigo SoftwRe for my Microsoft Office purchases, I haven't found a better price anywhere. What I didn't know is that they have awesome customer service. I had an issue with my computer and needed to... reinstall my software. I wasn't sure how to do that so I reached out to Indigo. They quickly responded with a video which provided a simple solution. I was back to work in minutes. Thank you Indigo for simplifying my life!read more

deb

00:01 24 Aug 24

I needed the Microsoft Office program on my Mac. When I purchased Indigo's product, I had several issues downloading and installing the program. However, when I reached out to the good people at Indigo, they went... above and beyond in helping me through all the steps needed in order to get the program up and running. I am beyond pleased with their expertise, knowledge, and the constant reaching out to me during the process! I've not seen a company care so much about their customers. Refreshing to see such professionalism! I would definitely recommend them for their products and services! Five stars to Indigo!read more

Melanie Koehler

21:33 16 Aug 24

Indigo is incredible!!! They have genuine Microsoft Suite products at a fraction of the price. In addition, the customer service is top notch!! Highly recommend!!!

Jack Berk

20:25 20 Jun 24

Indigio Software company is a company I continuously return to. Customer Service is great and the product pricing is awesome. This is a veteran owned/run company and I believe in supporting whenever possible those who... serve and have served to give us the Freedoms we love and hold dear. Thank you Indigo Software company. I refer anyone who wants a company that truley cares about their customers and want to support veterans!read more

Suzanne Ellis

18:54 18 Jun 24

I’m thankful I found Indigo Software. Over the last few years, I’ve purchased their Microsoft Office Professional software suite for three different home computers. I don't understand why everyone does not purchase... their Microsoft Office programs thru Indigo Software. They are economical and provide great, responsive Customer Service!read more

Russ Pilcher

13:59 07 May 24

I purchased a couple of licenses for Windows 10 over the years and 1 license for Office Pro 2019. I dumped one of my older laptops where Office Pro 2019 was installed and purchased a new laptop. Unfortunately, I... could not activate the Office Pro 2019 on my new laptop. I reached out to Indigo and they provided me a new legitimate activation code which I successfully registered in my Microsoft online account. I was then able to re-install on my new laptop without issue and fully activated and recognized as legitimate MS software.read more

John Benson

02:55 25 Apr 24

They have amazing customer service. I accidentally ordered the wrong item and then email them about my mistake. They were very quick to cancel my original order and refund the cost so I could easily order what I... actually wanted. The refund credited quickly to my credit card so there was no financial impact or delay.They have an excellent video to a company the order which made it very simple and easy to download and install.I am so happy to see that there are companies out there that still know what true customer service is.read more

elika

17:14 31 Jan 24

I purchased Office from Indigo some time ago, but in the aftermath of upgrading my PC's CPU and upgrading to Windows 11, the license was lost/deleted/corrupted/removed and my Office was deemed an unlicensed copy (with... the corresponding warnings from Microsoft.) The Team Indigo Helpdesk was (unlike some other "helpdesks") very helpful, resolving my issues promptly, even on a weekend. One may purchase productivity software from many sources, but they stand behind their service. Thank you Indigo. I feel comfortable in recommending your service to anyone at any time.read more

Sid Wood

18:01 28 Jan 24

I've dealt with several software vendors in the past, but I can truly say that Indigo has exceeded my expectations. Not only are the prices fantastic (for LEGITIMATE Sftwr and Keys), but the response, and follow-up are... amazing. I purchased software on behalf of a non-profit, and they handled the tax-exempt status without any issue. Then when I bought Software for myself, somehow my email was 'linked' to that non-profit entity. Indigo responded incredibly fast and cleared it up. All this, while providing valid keys which activated without issue.I'm very happy with Indigo Software and will continue to use them as a valuable Software resource!read more

Tbne3618

14:14 28 Jan 24

I am a Veteran disabled from a stroke , and built a New pc as therapy for my hand from components given to me as a gift, however I was having issues with my fresh new windows 10 Pro. Install and activation, 2 days... working on the issue ,and After hours on the phone with Microsoft support ,even they could not Resolve the Issue. I came upon the Indigo software website by accident. And thought I would send an email with my dilemma. It was late here on the east coast. I was very surprised in less than 1 hour I had received an email. With some instructions as to what I should look for. Emailed back a few screenshots of the errors. And 2 emails later. Within 1 hour . I was fully up and running. Issue was resolved. Not sure if I should mention a name, but I want to thank Michael of the Team Indigo Software Helpdesk ,,and company for resolving the issue. I highly recommend Indigo software for your Microsoft software needs. And their support is beyond fantastic. Please. Support this company. You cannot go wrong.Veteran owned business.Semper FiNeal Newmanread more

Neal Newman

18:09 23 Jan 24

We've been purchasing software for several years now and really appreciate the great service and quality of Indigo Software Company. Their prices are very affordable and we've never had an issue with any software we've... purchased. Look forward to another great year as our software needs arise!read more

Eagle Medical Inc

17:36 22 Jan 24

I could have bought Office 2021 from another company cheaper but didn't so glad I paid more had issues with download and the support from Joe and Jenna was awesome. You get what u pay for so spend the extra money and go... with Indigo. I've used multiple times and they have never let me down.read more

Herbert Cumbaa

15:55 26 Jul 22

Outstanding! Fair Price for Product! (Office Professional Plus 2016) Received Install Codes Immediately after Purchase! Processed Perfectly with Microsoft! Wanted Legit Software for Our Church! Will Use Again!... A+A+A+A+A+A+A+A+A+A+A+read more

Allan Drake

20:51 16 Jul 22

Asked for two activations for office 2019 professional I bought two times. Microsoft says since I updated to win 11 the code provided is not a good code on either computer. Indigo sent me both replacement codes. I... also sent in a form on your website with my phone number.read more

Bob S

14:13 20 Jun 22

I purchased MS Office 2019 for my new computer in 2021. The Install went well and all was good. A little over a year later Outlook stopped being able to sign into the Comcast email. Talking to Comcast tech after several... different trials we found by deleting the Comcast account and reinstalling it fixed the problem. About a month later the problem happen again. The delete and recreate the account trick did not work. Comcast indicated it was a MS Outlook problem since my iPhone that uses the same interface and the webmail portal all worked with the account. I then contacted Indigo about the issue. I got an email the next day asking for the order #. A few days later a email with YouTube video links on how to setup the Office software. I replied with a second more in depth description of what had been tried to resolve the issue. I have not heard from them in a week now. I can't imagine someone dealing with this lack of responce if their business depended upon it. Fortunetly for me, it is just for home use. The problem may not be MS Outlook, but you have to be able to get the support / knowledgebase to work thru to the solution.Edit: As soon as I checked my email, Indego had responded with a proceedure to reinstall Office and make sure no other office products were installed. It worked and Office is resyncing with the email account now.read more

Sidney Ruetz

21:03 19 May 22

Best software purchasing experience bar none. Excellent prices and installation was painless and flawless. I needed both Windows 10 and Microsoft office. I saved a lot of money. You can't go wrong here!!!

Dito Dalawa

15:15 24 Dec 21

How to Download, Install, and Activate Remote Desktop Services on Windows Server 2019