How to actually use RDS CALs

calrdswindows-server-2012-r2

I'm new to CALs, first time actually trying to use them, and I'm having some difficulties. I purchased 3 licences from CDW and installed them through the RD Licensing manager, where they show up as:

  • License version and type: Windows Server 2012 – Installed RDS Per
    Device CAL
  • License Program: Open
  • Total Licenses: 3
  • Issued: 0

So I believe I have them installed correctly. The "Remote Desktop Services" and "Remote Access" roles are currently enabled in the Server Manager.

How do I actually get the server to issue a license to a desktop? The way I understand it so far is the machine remote desktops into the server and is first issued a temporary key, and the second time the machine logs into the server a purchased key is assigned to that machine. Is this correct?

Best Answer

Yes, the licenses are assigned as they log in. There is no way to affix a license to a specific device, and definitely not beforehand.