Multiple RDP Sessions on Windows Server: RDS Setup

By default Windows Server allows only two administrative RDP sessions at a time. For more users to work on the server simultaneously you need to install the Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) role and buy RDS CAL licences. Below is the legitimate route through Server Manager and PowerShell.

How many sessions you get by default

A standard Windows Server permits two concurrent administrator sessions — that is a maintenance mode, not multi-user working. Full multi-user access is provided by the separate Remote Desktop Services (RDS) role, which is licensed separately.

Step 1. Install the Remote Desktop Services role

From PowerShell as Administrator:

Install-WindowsFeature -Name RDS-RD-Server -IncludeManagementTools

Restart the server after installation:

Restart-Computer -Force

Alternatively install the role through Server Manager → Add Roles and Features → Remote Desktop Services → Remote Desktop Session Host.

Step 2. Install the licensing service

So the server can issue licences, add the licensing role:

Install-WindowsFeature -Name RDS-Licensing -IncludeManagementTools

Then activate the licence server in RD Licensing Manager (licmgr.exe) and load the RDS CALs you purchased (per user or per device).

Step 3. Set the licence server and mode

Set the licensing mode (for example, per user = 4) and the licence server address through Group Policy. Open the policy editor:

gpedit.msc

Go to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Remote Desktop Services → Remote Desktop Session Host → Licensing and configure:

• Use the specified Remote Desktop license servers — enter the name or IP of the licence server;
• Set the Remote Desktop licensing mode — Per User or Per Device.

Step 4. Check the session limit

Make sure the “Limit number of connections” policy is not capping your connections. In the same GPO branch under Connections, the Limit number of connections setting should be disabled or set to the number you need.

To see active sessions in real time:

query session

Important note on licensing

Once installed, the RDSH role gives you a 120-day grace period to complete the setup. After it expires, multi-user access stops unless RDS CALs are properly installed. Running RDS in production without purchased CALs breaches Microsoft’s terms.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get more than two sessions without buying licences?

No. Legitimate multi-user RDP works only with the RDS role and purchased RDS CALs. Two administrative connections is the maximum without licences.

What is the 120-day grace period?

It is the window after the RDSH role is installed during which the server works without a licence server, so you have time to set licensing up. Once it ends, valid CALs are required.

What is the difference between Per User and Per Device CALs?

Per User licenses specific users regardless of device; Per Device licenses specific devices regardless of who signs in from them. Pick whichever you have fewer of.

How do I see who is connected right now?

The query session command (or qwinsta) lists every active and disconnected session with the user names and their state.

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