How to Install Remote Desktop Services on Windows Server 2022

Author(s): Louis Ouellet

Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is an essential component for organizations that need centralized desktop and application access. Installing RDS on Windows Server 2022 provides a robust and secure environment for remote work and collaboration. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of installing and configuring Remote Desktop Services on Windows Server 2022.

Before installing Remote Desktop Services, ensure that your environment meets these requirements:

1. Windows Server 2022 Installation:
   • Ensure your server is running Windows Server 2022 Standard or Datacenter edition.
   • The server should have the latest updates installed.
2. Administrator Rights:
   • You must have administrator privileges on the server to install RDS.
3. Network Configuration:
   • Configure a static IP address on the server for consistency.
4. Active Directory (Optional):
   • If deploying in a domain environment, ensure the server is part of the domain and that you are logged in as a domain administrator.

1. Open the Server Manager:
   • Click the menu, search for Server Manager, and launch it.
2. Add Roles and Features:
   • In the Server Manager Dashboard, click Add roles and features.
3. Choose Installation Type:
   • Select Remote Desktop Services installation and click Next.
4. Choose Deployment Type:
   • Select Quick Start and click Next.
5. Choose Deployment Scenario:
   • Select Session-based desktop deployment and click Next.
6. Select the Destination Server:
   • Choose the server you want to configure and click Next.
7. Confirm Role Services:
   • Review the role services, check Restart the destination server automatically if required and click Deploy.

1. In the Server Manager, navigate to the Remote Desktop Services tab on the left sidebar.
2. Click on Tasks and select Edit Deployment Properties.
3. Configure the Deployment Properties:
   • Enter the licensing mode and licensing server details.
   • Click OK to save the changes.

1. In the Server Manager, navigate to the QuickSessionCollection tab on the left sidebar.
2. Click on Tasks and select Edit Properties.
3. Configure the Collection Properties:
   • In the General tab, set the name of the collection.
   • In the User Groups tab, add the users or groups that will have access to the collection.
   • In the Session tab, configure the session settings as needed.
   • Click OK to save the changes.

1. Launch the RD Licensing Manager:
   • In the Server Manager, navigate to Tools > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Licensing Manager.
2. Activate the License Server:
   • Right-click your server name and select Activate Server. Follow the wizard to complete activation.
3. Install Licenses:
   • Once activated, install your client access licenses (CALs) via the wizard.

1. From a client machine, launch the Remote Desktop Connection application.
2. Enter the server’s IP address or hostname and click Connect.
3. Log in with a user account that has remote access permissions.

Installing and configuring Remote Desktop Services on Windows Server 2022 is a straightforward process that significantly enhances your organization’s remote access capabilities. By following this guide, you can set up a secure and scalable RDS environment, whether for application hosting, remote work, or centralized management.

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