How to Convert RDS Per User CALs to Per Device CALs in Remote Desktop Licensing Manager
Converting Remote Desktop Services (RDS) Per User CALs to Per Device CALs (or vice versa) in Windows Server allows organizations to adapt their licensing model as workplace structures evolve. Per Device CALs are ideal for shift workers sharing workstations or factory terminal kiosks, whereas Per User CALs suit employees accessing virtual desktops from multiple laptops and mobile devices. While you cannot simply toggle a switch inside the graphical user interface to transform active license keys, you can convert CAL allocations by executing the “Manage Licenses” Wizard in Remote Desktop Licensing Manager (licmgr.exe), contacting Microsoft’s Automated Clearinghouse telephone activation system, and updating the RD Session Host Group Policy to align with the new licensing mode.
Table of Contents
1. Per User vs Per Device CALs: Which Do You Need?
- RDS Per User CAL: Bound to an Active Directory user account. That user can access RDS from an unlimited number of devices (laptop, home desktop, phone).
- RDS Per Device CAL: Bound to a physical hardware MAC address. An unlimited number of shift workers can log into that specific PC to connect to RDS.
2. Step 1: Open Remote Desktop Licensing Manager
- On your license server, press Windows Key + R, type
licmgr.exe, and press Enter. - Review your currently installed CAL packs and note the Key Pack ID.
3. Step 2: Use Manage Licenses Wizard (or Microsoft Clearinghouse)
- Right-click your license server in
licmgr.exeand select Manage Licenses. - Select Replace currently installed licenses with new licenses or choose Telephone connection method if an automatic conversion is rejected.
- The Microsoft Clearinghouse operator or automated phone portal will revoke the old Per User key pack and issue a replacement Per Device key pack code.
4. Step 3: Reconfigure Licensing Mode on RD Session Host
Update your Session Host Group Policy to switch from Per User to Per Device:
Computer Configuration > Admin Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > RD Session Host > Licensing
Set “Remote Desktop licensing mode” = Per Device
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Can a server use both Per User and Per Device CALs simultaneously?
The RD Licensing server can store both types of CALs in its database, but each individual RD Session Host must be configured in either Per User OR Per Device mode.
