6.17. RDP licenses in Windows

To access the desktop of a server running the Windows Server operating system, the RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) is used.

Regardless of how many user accounts are created on the Windows server, by default, the standard license allows no more than 2 simultaneous connections — meaning that a maximum of two users can work with the server via RDP at the same time. These two licenses are provided for server administration.

To use more than two simultaneous connections, the Remote Desktop Services must be configured on the server. After configuration, a grace period of 120 days is provided, during which an unlimited number of connections can be used. After this period expires, the number of connections will again be limited to two. To use a greater number of connections, additional licenses will need to be purchased. However, due to the discontinuation of Windows license sales, our company no longer sells such licenses.

Therefore:

• If one or two users are working on the server simultaneously, an additional license is not required.
• If more than 2 users will be working, additional licenses must be purchased for each additional user. For example, if 5 users need to work simultaneously on the server, you can take advantage of the 120 day grace period, after which you must purchase 3 additional licenses for 3 additional users.