Rds Cal License Registry Key May 2026

The primary registry keys for managing Remote Desktop Services (RDS) Client Access Licenses (CALs) are used to configure the licensing mode and specify the license server. Core RDS Licensing Registry Keys Licensing Mode : Defines "Per User" ( ) or "Per Device" ( ) settings.

Windows stores RDS licensing data in different registry paths depending on whether you are looking at the RD Licensing Server or the RD Session Host (Client). 1. The RD Licensing Server Database Path rds cal license registry key

• Inspect RCM\GracePeriod keys for timestamps; confirm system clock/time sync; avoid deleting grace data unless instructed by Microsoft support—prefer restoring from backup or using supported remediation.

For Older Windows Versions (Server 2008 / 2008 R2)

Legacy systems may store RDS licensing data at: The primary registry keys for managing Remote Desktop

Troubleshooting Checklist

• Confirm RDS roles and Licensing service are installed and running.
• Check LicensingMode and LicenseServers entries for correctness.
• Ensure network connectivity and DNS resolution between session hosts and license server(s).
• On clients failing to obtain device CALs, delete HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\MSLicensing and reboot or restart Remote Desktop Services-related components, then reconnect.
• Review event logs: TerminalServices-License, RDS Licensing, and System logs for specific error codes.
• Validate license server activation in RD Licensing Manager and available CAL counts.
• If the grace period appears stuck, inspect GracePeriod keys; consider re-creating RDS roles or using supported recovery steps instead of manual registry deletion unless directed by vendor guidance.

Managing Remote Desktop Services (RDS) Client Access Licenses (CALs) through the Windows Registry is often necessary for troubleshooting licensing errors or configuring servers in environments where Group Policy is not applied. Key RDS Licensing Registry Keys For Older Windows Versions (Server 2008 / 2008