: This is intended for organizations to configure and test their environment before committing to a purchase. 2. Built-in Administrative Connections (Always Free)
Remote Desktop Services (RDS) on Windows Server 2019 is a powerful solution for delivering desktops and applications to remote users. However, Microsoft RDS CALs (Client Access Licenses) can be expensive — typically around — and small businesses, IT labs, and developers often search for "license-free" alternatives. While there is no completely free, perpetual, legal license for production RDS usage, there are several legitimate ways to run RDS on Windows Server 2019 without immediate license costs. This article explores every viable approach — from built-in grace periods to testing environments, registry tweaks, and third-party alternatives.
Some users get licenses while others don't. windows server 2019 remote desktop services license free
Walk through the for the Licensing Manager
Requires Windows Server CALs AND RDS CALs (either Per User or Per Device). : This is intended for organizations to configure
If you move beyond testing or require more than two concurrent users, you must purchase: To access the base server OS.
Some community guides suggest deleting registry keys (like GracePeriod in HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\RCM ) to reset the 120-day clock. Note: This is generally considered a violation of Microsoft's Terms of Service for production environments. However, Microsoft RDS CALs (Client Access Licenses) can
When you install the Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) role on Windows Server 2019, the operating system activates a temporary, fully functional evaluation period.
When the grace period ends, you must purchase legal licenses. You need to choose between two distinct types of RDS CALs based on your business model. Best Used For Key Advantage
After performing these steps and restarting, the 120-day grace period resets, allowing continued "free" RDS access for another 120 days.
Right-click the GracePeriod key and delete it. The key will be recreated automatically when the server restarts, resetting the 120-day counter.