Licensing Remote Desktop Services
Remote Desktop Services functionality is delivered in Windows Server 2008 R2 with SP1. If you own Windows Server 2008 R2 but are not running SP1, you can
download SP1 for free. If you do not yet own Windows Server 2008 R2 with SP1, you will need to upgrade your server operating system to this latest version.
Accessing RDS Functionality in Windows Server 2008 R2 with SP1
If you already own Windows Server 2008 R2 with SP1, to utilize the RDS functionality of the Windows Server software, you will need an incremental Remote Desktop Services Client Access License (RDS CAL) in addition to your Windows Server license and Windows Server Client Access License. A RDS CAL (formerly known as Terminal Services Client Access License or TS CAL) is required for each user or device accessing RDS functionality running on a Windows Server. The RDS CAL is a perpetual license. RDS functionality can also be licensed as part of the Microsoft VDI Standard Suite or Microsoft VDI Premium Suite as a subscription.
Microsoft Virtual Desktop Infrastructure Suites
The Microsoft VDI Standard Suite and Microsoft VDI Premium Suite volume licenses enable customers to purchase the different infrastructure and management components of the comprehensive Microsoft VDI offering through a simple, unified subscription license.
The
VDI Standard Suite includes the components required for a basic VDI deployment. For more flexibility, the
VDI Premium Suite includes additional desktop and application deployment options.