Windows Server 2019 Remote Desktop Services License ((hot)) Free Jun 2026
You must choose between two types of RDS CALs based on your architecture:
: You can still enable the 120-day RDS grace period within this 180-day OS evaluation window to test remote desktop features. Summary of Options Concurrent Users Administrative Mode Server maintenance RDS Grace Period Unlimited* Short-term projects/testing Evaluation OS Unlimited* Full OS and RDS feature testing *Note: Hardware capacity may limit actual user numbers. How To Reset 120 Day Grace Period on Windows Server RDS
Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\RCM\GracePeriod windows server 2019 remote desktop services license free
: Once the 120 days expire, users will be blocked from connecting unless a valid license server and permanent RDS CALs (either Per User or Per Device ) are configured. Considerations for "Free" Setups
The grace period is controlled by a registry key. By deleting or manipulating this key, you can reset the 120-day counter. You must choose between two types of RDS
Microsoft offers two distinct types of RDS CALs depending on your infrastructure needs: License Type Best Used For
Follow the connection wizard to connect to Microsoft Clearinghouse and register your server. Step 3: Configure Deployment Properties Considerations for "Free" Setups The grace period is
The GracePeriod key has no default permissions — not even for administrators. To modify it:
Purchase the appropriate RDS CALs for your environment. At approximately $10 per CAL per month , the cost is modest for most businesses. If 10 users cost $1,200/year, consider that downtime from illegal software — including potential lawsuits, fines, and security breaches — will cost far more.
While a completely free perpetual license does not exist, businesses can minimize costs: