The Remote Desktop Services (RDS) 1 User Client Access License (CAL) allows a single user to access remote desktop services provided by Windows Server 2022. This license is essential for organizations that require remote access for employees, enabling them to connect to applications and desktops hosted on a central server.
Key Features:
1. Remote Access:
- Users can connect to their applications and desktops from anywhere using various devices (PCs, tablets, smartphones).
2. Session-Based Desktops:
- Provides access to session-based desktops where multiple users can run applications concurrently on a single server instance.
3. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI):
- Supports virtual desktops that allow users to access personalized desktop environments hosted on the server.
4. Enhanced Security:
- Features like Network Level Authentication (NLA) and SSL encryption protect user sessions and data integrity.
5. Multi-Session Capability:
- Users can access their sessions from different devices, though only one active session per user is allowed.
6. User Profile Disks:
- Stores user-specific settings and files in a virtual disk, ensuring persistence and a consistent experience across sessions.
7. Connection Broker:
- Distributes user connections efficiently and allows for load balancing across multiple servers.
8. Remote Desktop Gateway:
- Securely enables users to connect to RDS over the internet using HTTPS.
9. RemoteApp Programs:
- Allows users to run specific applications remotely while displaying them as if they were running locally.
10. License Management:
- Tools for managing RDS licenses and monitoring usage through the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager.
11. Integration with Microsoft 365:
- Seamless integration with Microsoft Office and other productivity tools.
12. Group Policy Management:
- Configures user sessions and policies through Active Directory Group Policies.
System Requirements:
Hardware Requirements
- Processor:
- Minimum: 1.4 GHz 64-bit processor (single-core)
- Recommended: 2 GHz or faster (multi-core) for better performance
- RAM:
- Minimum: 512 MB (for the server)
- Recommended: 2 GB or more for basic tasks; 16 GB or more for multiple concurrent users
- Disk Space:
- Minimum: 32 GB of available disk space for installation
- Additional space required based on the number of users and applications
- Network Adapter:
- Gigabit (10/100/1000base-T) network adapter recommended for optimal performance
Software Requirements
- Operating System:
- Windows Server 2022 (Standard or Datacenter editions)
- RDS Roles:
- Must install Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH), Remote Desktop Connection Broker (RD Connection Broker), Remote Desktop Gateway (RD Gateway), and Remote Desktop Licensing (RD Licensing) roles as needed.
Additional Requirements
- Active Directory:
- The server should be joined to an Active Directory domain for authentication, management, and licensing.
- Licensing:
- Requires appropriate CALs (User or Device) to be purchased and managed through the RD Licensing Manager.
- Internet Connection:
- Required for updates, license validation, and Remote Desktop Gateway services.