Note

With a Device CAL, you license each device that accesses your server—regardless of how many users use that device.
One device = unlimited users on that device.

Description

Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is Microsoft’s platform for delivering secure, flexible, and scalable virtualization solutions. It enables organizations to provide virtualized applications, secure remote desktop access, and cloud-hosted workspaces to end users—wherever they are located.

RDS supports a wide range of deployment scenarios, making it ideal for businesses wanting to centralize their apps, support remote teams, or deliver full virtual desktops.

Remote Desktop Services Overview

RDS provides:

• Deployment flexibility – Choose on-premises, cloud (Azure), or hybrid deployments.

• Cost-efficient scalability – Expand access without major infrastructure changes.

• Extensibility – Integrates with partner VDI solutions and supports multiple workloads.

It works across:

• Windows Server 2016 for on-premise scenarios

• Microsoft Azure for cloud deployments

• Partner solutions for custom virtualization environments

Virtualization Options

Depending on your infrastructure and business needs, RDS can be configured in different ways:

1. Session-Based Virtualization

Use Windows Server to deliver a cost-effective, multi-session environment for everyday tasks.
Ideal for high-density user environments and shared workload scenarios.

2. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)

Use Windows client OS to provide:

• High performance

• Full app compatibility

• A familiar desktop experience
  Perfect for users who need a dedicated virtual machine.

Publishing Options for Users

Within your RDS setup, you can publish resources in two main ways:

Full Desktops

Provide a complete, managed Windows desktop experience.
Ideal for:

• Primary workstation users

• Thin-client environments

• MultiPoint Services deployments

RemoteApps

Publish individual applications that run on the server but appear on the user’s device like local apps.
Features:

• Own taskbar icons

• Resizable windows

• Multi-monitor support

RemoteApps are perfect when you want centralized application control without giving users full desktop access.