Windows Server 2019: How to Enable Remote Desktop Services



Remote Desktop Services (RDS) in Windows Server 2019 is one of the most powerful features offered by Microsoft to help organizations and individuals enable secure remote access to applications, desktops, and data. With businesses adopting remote and hybrid work models, RDS has become essential for productivity, flexibility, and centralized management.

In this article, we’ll cover what Remote Desktop Services are, why they’re important, and provide a step-by-step guide on enabling and configuring RDS on Windows Server 2019. We’ll also explore best practices, common challenges, and how to secure your environment.

1. What are Remote Desktop Services (RDS)?

Remote Desktop Services (previously known as Terminal Services) is a role in Windows Server that allows users to remotely connect to desktops or applications hosted on a server. Through RDS, multiple users can access the same server simultaneously while working in isolated environments.

Key features include:

  • Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH): Hosts Windows desktops and apps for multiple users.

  • Remote Desktop Gateway (RD Gateway): Enables secure connections over the Internet
    .

  • Remote Desktop Licensing: Manages and enforces CALs (Client Access Licenses).

  • RemoteApp: Delivers applications virtually without the full desktop.

  • Remote Desktop Web Access (RD Web): Provides browser-based access.

2. Why Enable Remote Desktop Services in Windows Server 2019?

Organizations enable RDS for a wide range of benefits:

  1. Centralized Management – Apps and desktops run from one central server, reducing deployment complexity.

  2. Cost Efficiency – Eliminates the need for high-performance hardware for every user.

  3. Flexibility – Employees can log in from anywhere using PCs, thin clients, or even mobile devices.

  4. Security – Centralized data reduces risks of leakage from personal devices.

  5. Scalability – Easily add or remove users as your organization grows.

3. Prerequisites for Enabling RDS

Before enabling RDS on Windows Server 2019, ensure the following:

  • You have administrator rights on the server.

  • The server is updated with the latest Windows updates and patches.

  • The network configuration allows RDP traffic (default port 3389).

  • A valid Windows Server 2019 license and RDS CALs (if required).

  • Sufficient hardware resources (CPU, RAM, storage) to support multiple sessions.

4. Step-by-Step Guide to Enable Remote Desktop Services

Step 1: Open Server Manager

  1. Log into your Windows Server 2019.

  2. Launch Server Manager (it opens by default after login).

Step 2: Add the Remote Desktop Services Role

  1. In Server Manager, click on Manage > Add Roles and Features.

  2. Choose Role-based or feature-based installation.

  3. Select the target server.

  4. From the list of roles, select Remote Desktop Services.

  5. Proceed through the wizard, and click Install.

This installs the basic RDS role on your server.

Step 3: Install Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH)

  1. Open the Add Roles and Features Wizard again.

  2. Select Remote Desktop Services installation.

  3. Choose Standard deployment.

  4. Select Session-based desktop deployment.

  5. Add the Remote Desktop Session Host role.

  6. Restart the server if prompted.

Step 4: Enable Remote Desktop Access

  1. Open System Properties (Right-click This PC > Properties > Remote settings).

  2. Under Remote Desktop, select Allow remote connections to this computer.

  3. (Optional) Enable Network Level Authentication (NLA) for better security.

  4. Add specific users or groups who will have RDP access.

Step 5: Configure Firewall Rules

  • Open Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security.

  • Ensure the rule Remote Desktop – User Mode (TCP-In) is enabled.

  • This allows RDP traffic on port 3389.

Step 6: Test RDP Connection

  1. From a client PC, open Remote Desktop Connection (mstsc.exe).

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

  3. Log in using your Windows Server credentials.

If the connection succeeds, RDS is enabled and working.

5. Licensing Remote Desktop Services

By default, RDS works for a limited period (120-day grace period). To continue using it, you must configure Remote Desktop Licensing:

  1. In Server Manager, open Remote Desktop Services > Overview.

  2. Click RD Licensing and install the role.

  3. Activate the licensing server using Microsoft’s License Wizard.

  4. Install RDS CALs (per user or per device).

Without proper licensing, RDS connections will stop after the trial period.

6. Securing Your RDS Deployment

Since RDS allows external connections, it is often targeted by attackers. Follow these practices to secure your setup:

  • Enable NLA (Network Level Authentication).

  • Use strong passwords for all accounts.

  • Limit users with RDP access to only those who need it.

  • Change the default RDP port (3389) to reduce automated attacks.

  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) if possible.

  • Use RD Gateway for secure internet connections.

  • Keep Windows updated with patches and security fixes.

7. Common Issues and Troubleshooting

  • Connection Refused: Check firewall and RDP settings.

  • License Errors: Verify CAL installation and activation.

  • Slow Performance: Increase server resources, optimize sessions, and disable unnecessary visual effects.

  • Black Screen Issues: Update RDP client and GPU drivers.

8. Best Practices for Remote Desktop Services

  • Regularly monitor server performance with Task Manager or Performance Monitor.

  • Backup user data to avoid data loss in case of server failure.

  • Create Group Policies to control user sessions and security.

  • Consider load balancing if hosting many users.

  • Audit login attempts for suspicious activity.

9. Benefits of Enabling RDS in Windows Server 2019

Once enabled, RDS provides:

  • Anywhere access to work environments.

  • Reduced costs by centralizing hardware needs.

  • Improved collaboration across distributed teams.

  • Ease of IT management with centralized updates.

Conclusion

Enabling Remote Desktop Services on Windows Server 2019 provides organizations and individuals with a powerful tool for remote connectivity, centralized management, and increased productivity. By following the steps above—installing the RDS role, enabling access, configuring licensing, and securing the environment—you can deploy a reliable and scalable RDS infrastructure.

Whether for businesses managing remote employees or IT admins needing central control, RDS in Windows Server 2019 remains one of the best solutions for delivering remote desktops and applications securely and efficiently.

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