How to Set Up Remote Desktop Services on Windows Server 2022 Standard

Remote access has become essential for organizations looking to enable flexible work environments. But many IT admins and SMBs still ask: How do I properly set up Remote Desktop Services (RDS) on Windows Server 2022 Standard without compromising security or usability?

This comprehensive guide walks you through the step-by-step RDS setup process, answers common queries, and provides best practices to ensure your remote access solution is reliable and secure.

What is Remote Desktop Services (RDS)?

Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is a feature in Windows Server that allows multiple users to access virtual desktops or applications hosted on a central server. It’s widely used for managing remote users, centralizing resources, and improving IT control.

Why Use RDS on Windows Server 2022?

Setting up RDS on Windows Server 2022 Standard offers benefits like:

• Secure remote access to desktops and apps

• Centralized control over user sessions

• Simplified application deployment

• Scalable multi-user infrastructure

• Compatibility with Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

Prerequisites for Installing Remote Desktop Services

Before you begin, ensure the following:

• You have Windows Server 2022 Standard installed and updated
• A Domain Controller is configured if using Active Directory
• A static IP address is assigned to the server
• You have administrative privileges
• You can access Server Manager

Step-by-Step Guide: Installing and Configuring Remote Desktop Services

Step 1: Add the Remote Desktop Services Role

1. Open Server Manager.

2. Click on Manage > Add Roles and Features.

3. Select Role-based or feature-based installation.

4. Choose the local server.

5. In the Server Roles section, select:
   • Remote Desktop Services

   • Then choose the following sub-roles:
     • RD Session Host

     • RD Licensing

     • RD Connection Broker (optional for load balancing)

6. Click Next and finish the installation.

Step 2: Configure RD Licensing

1. Open Server Manager > Remote Desktop Services > Overview.

2. Click RD Licensing and point it to your licensing server.

3. Use Per User or Per Device licensing mode as needed.

Note: Licensing grace period is 120 days. After that, a valid license must be installed.
Refer to Microsoft’s official guide on RDS Licensing (High DA).

Step 3: Enable Remote Desktop for User Access

1. Go to System Properties > Remote.

2. Enable Allow remote connections to this computer.

3. Add users under Select Users who can connect remotely.

4. Ensure Network Level Authentication (NLA) is enabled for security.

Step 4: Configure Firewall and Port

• Open TCP port 3389 in the firewall.

• You can do this via Windows Defender Firewall > Inbound Rules > New Rule.

• For advanced security, use an RDP Gateway or VPN.

Step 5: Connect Using Remote Desktop Client

1. On a remote device, open Remote Desktop Connection.

2. Enter the server’s public IP or hostname.

3. Log in with authorized credentials.

Best Practices for Securing RDS

• Use SSL certificates to encrypt connections
• Limit access using Group Policy or IP restrictions
• Set idle session timeouts to log off inactive users
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Regularly update the server with security patches

For more advanced deployment options, explore tools like Azure Virtual Desktop (High DA) or Citrix Virtual Apps (High DA) for hybrid-cloud environments.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

RDP Not Connecting?

• Check if the firewall is blocking port 3389

• Ensure Remote Desktop is enabled on the server

• Confirm the user has permission to access

Licensing Errors?

• Verify that RD Licensing Role is installed

• Activate your license server

• Make sure license type matches configuration

Performance is Slow?

• Check server resource usage (RAM/CPU)

• Limit session resolution or graphics settings

• Upgrade hardware or switch to GPU-based RDS if needed

Conclusion

Setting up Remote Desktop Services on Windows Server 2022 Standard gives your organization the flexibility, control, and security needed for modern remote work. By following the steps outlined above and applying best practices, you can ensure a smooth and scalable remote access environment.

For more such in-depth, practical tech tutorials and licensing insights, visit tech-licenses.

FAQ

Q1. Can I use RDS without Active Directory?
Yes, but for multiple users or advanced features, a domain setup is recommended.

Q2. What’s the difference between RDP and RDS?
RDP is the protocol used to connect. RDS is the full suite of services enabling multi-user access, session brokering, and licensing.

Q3. How many users can connect simultaneously to RDS?
Depends on your licensing model and server capacity. With valid CALs (Client Access Licenses), you can scale to dozens or even hundreds of users.