To Windows Server 2019 enable Remote Desktop Services, you need to install the Remote Desktop Services role using Server Manager, configure the role services (such as Remote Desktop Session Host, Licensing, and Connection Broker), and then allow remote connections through system settings and firewall. This process transforms your server into a Remote Desktop host, allowing multiple users to connect, run applications, and manage resources remotely.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about enabling Remote Desktop Services (RDS) in Windows Server 2019, from the basics of what RDS is to the step-by-step setup with best practices.
What is Remote Desktop Services (RDS)?
Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is a feature of Microsoft Windows Server that allows users to access applications or the full desktop environment hosted on a central server. Instead of running apps on their local machine, users connect to the server via Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP).
Benefits of RDS:
Centralized Management: Applications and desktops are managed in one place.
Cost Efficiency: Reduce software licensing and hardware expenses by consolidating resources.
Flexibility: Users can connect from anywhere using RDP clients (Windows, Mac, Linux, mobile).
Scalability: Easily add more servers to handle growing workloads.
Prerequisites for Enabling RDS
Before enabling Remote Desktop Services, ensure the following:
Windows Server 2019 installed (Standard or Datacenter edition).
Administrator privileges to configure server roles.
Static IP address assigned to the server.
Updated Windows Server patches for security.
Firewall and network configuration that allows inbound RDP connections (TCP port 3389).
Windows Server 2019 Enable Remote Desktop Services: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Enable Remote Desktop for Admin Access
By default, Windows Server allows Remote Desktop connections for administrators. To enable it:
Open Server Manager → click on Local Server.
Find Remote Desktop in the right-hand panel.
Click Disabled and choose Allow remote connections to this computer.
Ensure Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication (NLA) is checked for security.
Apply changes.
Now administrators can connect to the server via RDP, but this is not the full RDS setup yet.
Step 2: Install Remote Desktop Services Role
To provide full RDS functionality (multiple sessions, app publishing, etc.), install the role:
Open Server Manager.
Click Manage → Add Roles and Features.
In the wizard, select Role-based or feature-based installation.
Choose your server from the server pool.
Under Server Roles, check Remote Desktop Services.
Expand it and select the following role services:
Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH): Allows multiple user sessions.
Remote Desktop Licensing (RDL): Manages RDS licenses.
Remote Desktop Connection Broker (optional): Balances load in multi-server environments.
Remote Desktop Web Access (optional): Web-based RDP client access.
Complete the wizard and restart the server if required.
Step 3: Configure Remote Desktop Licensing
By default, RDS will work for 120 days in a grace period. After that, you need valid RDS CALs (Client Access Licenses).
In Server Manager, go to Remote Desktop Services → Overview.
Under Deployment Overview, select RD Licensing.
Add the server as the license server.
Use the RD Licensing Manager tool to activate it online or by phone.
This ensures your RDS deployment remains compliant after the trial period.
Step 4: Configure Remote Desktop Session Host
The Session Host role is the core of RDS. It enables multiple users to log in and use apps.
Open Server Manager → Remote Desktop Services → Collections.
Create a Session Collection.
Name the collection (e.g.,
RDS_Collection1).Assign session host servers.
Specify user groups allowed to connect.
Add published RemoteApps if needed.
Configure session settings like timeouts, permissions, and redirection policies.
Step 5: Allow Remote Desktop Through Windows Firewall
Normally, the RDS role setup enables firewall rules automatically. If not, configure manually:
Or via GUI:
Open Control Panel → System and Security → Windows Defender Firewall → Allow an app or feature.
Enable Remote Desktop for Domain, Private, and Public profiles.
Step 6: Test Remote Desktop Connection
From a client computer:
Open Remote Desktop Connection (mstsc).
Enter the server’s hostname or IP address.
Log in with valid credentials.
If successful, you’ll see the Windows Server 2019 desktop.
Step 7: Best Practices for Security
Enabling RDS also increases exposure to security threats. Follow these best practices:
Use Network Level Authentication (NLA): Prevents unauthorized access before full session is established.
Restrict Users: Create groups specifically for RDS access and assign permissions.
Change the RDP Port (Optional): Modify default port 3389 if needed.
Use Strong Passwords & MFA: Require complex passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.
Keep Server Updated: Apply latest Windows patches and updates.
Consider RDS Gateway: For secure connections from external networks.
Step 8: Publishing RemoteApps (Optional)
Instead of giving users full desktop access, you can publish only specific applications:
In Server Manager, go to Remote Desktop Services → Collections.
Select your collection → RemoteApp Programs.
Publish apps like Word, Excel, or custom software.
Users can launch these apps via RDP or RD Web Access without seeing the full desktop.
Common Issues and Fixes
Error: Can’t connect to the remote computer
Ensure firewall rules are enabled.
Check if the RDS role is installed.
License errors after 120 days
Configure RDS licensing properly and activate with CALs.
Performance issues
Optimize by increasing server RAM, enabling GPU acceleration, or load balancing with Connection Broker.
Conclusion
Windows Server 2019 enable Remote Desktop Services involves more than just turning on Remote Desktop. You need to install and configure the RDS role, set up licensing, and secure the environment. Once configured, RDS provides a scalable, centralized, and efficient way to deliver applications and desktops to users, whether in a corporate LAN or remote work scenario.
By following the steps in this guide—installing roles, configuring licensing, securing access, and testing connections—you’ll have a fully functional RDS setup in Windows Server 2019.
