If you want to manually point a Session Host to a specific Remote Desktop Licensing Server via the registry, utilize this key:
Search for "Remote Desktop Connection" in the Windows Start menu.
In regedit , navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\MSLicensing .
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Terminal Server Client\Default\AddIns\RDPDR Use code with caution.
The Windows registry holds several essential keys that control RDS licensing behavior. Understanding these locations is the first step toward mastering RDS license management.
This happens when the RDS service is running. You must stop TermService before certain deletions, especially GracePeriod .
The Windows Registry stores RDS licensing configuration data across a few distinct locations depending on whether you are managing the Remote Desktop Session Host (RD Session Host) or the Licensing Server itself. The Licensing Mode and Server Configuration Path
These policies override local registry settings when enforced, providing centralized management for large deployments.
Inside the key, locate the binary value (usually named with a long string of numbers beginning with L$ ). Right-click the binary value and select .
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about RDS CAL license registry keys, from core configuration paths and grace period resets to advanced troubleshooting and best practices.
When you install the RD Session Host role, Microsoft grants a 120-day licensing grace period. The system tracks this countdown via a secured registry key:
Right-click and select Export (always back up before deleting). Right-click MSLicensing and select Delete .
This is the most critical registry path for RDS licensing configuration. Within this key, you'll find the LicensingMode value, which determines how your Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) server issues client access licenses (CALs). This setting must align with the type of CALs installed on your license server—whether Per User or Per Device. The registry setting can also be configured via Group Policy (Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Licensing), but direct registry editing is often necessary for troubleshooting.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\RCM\GracePeriod Use code with caution.
