Windows Remote Host Licensing Mode

Windows Problem

Server 2012’s Terminal Server services are proving to be much different than prior versions of windows. The initial remote desktop based roles wizard is easier to use, but making changes after they are installed can be a hassle.

A lot of the configuration is done in Server Manager -> Remote Desktop Services -> Deployment Overview -> Tasks -> Edit Deployment Properties.

Solution

The setting that I missed was one under RD Licensing -> Select the Remote Desktop licensing mode: Per Device or Per User.

After activating our licensing for Enterprise Agreement for Windows 8 VDI Per Device CAL’s, I assumed that the licensing mode would default to Per Device. It did not, and remote desktop did not work to VM’s on the terminal server.

Be aware that if you have the licensing server installed and activated that these items do not default to the CAL’s you purchased and configured. This applies to RD virtualization host and session host roles.

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