Remote Desktop Service
Remote desktop software
- Features
- Ease of use
- Ease of management
- Quality of support
- Affordability
- Market presence
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$220.00 per user/device CAL
Free Trial unavailableFree version unavailable
Small
Medium
Large
- Retail and wholesale
- Real estate and property management
- Agriculture, fishing, and forestry
What is Remote Desktop Service
Remote Desktop Service is a Microsoft Windows feature that enables users to connect to and control a Windows PC or server remotely using the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). It is commonly used by IT administrators and support teams for remote administration, troubleshooting, and access to internal systems. The service is typically managed through Windows settings, Group Policy, and Remote Desktop Services roles on Windows Server, and it integrates with Windows authentication and security controls.
Built into Windows platform
Remote Desktop Service is included with Windows and Windows Server, reducing the need to deploy separate remote access agents for many environments. It leverages native OS components and standard administrative tooling such as Group Policy and Windows Firewall. This can simplify rollout and standardization in Microsoft-centric IT estates.
Standards-based RDP connectivity
The product uses RDP, a widely supported protocol with broad client availability across operating systems and devices. It supports typical remote session capabilities such as full desktop control, clipboard, and device/resource redirection depending on configuration. This makes it suitable for common remote administration and support workflows.
Integrates with Windows security
Remote Desktop Service integrates with Active Directory, Windows authentication, and authorization controls. Features such as Network Level Authentication (NLA) and certificate-based TLS can be used to harden access when properly configured. Centralized policy and auditing options are available through Windows and Windows Server management frameworks.
Requires careful security hardening
Exposing RDP directly to the internet is a common security risk and typically requires additional controls such as VPN, RD Gateway, conditional access, and strong credential policies. Misconfiguration can increase susceptibility to credential attacks and unauthorized access. Organizations often need extra infrastructure and monitoring to meet security requirements.
Less turnkey for support
Compared with dedicated remote support tools, Remote Desktop Service is less oriented around ad-hoc customer support scenarios such as one-time sessions, technician workflows, and lightweight invitation links. Unattended access and user consent flows depend on Windows configuration rather than purpose-built support features. Helpdesk teams may need additional processes or tooling for session management and reporting.
Licensing and role complexity
On Windows Server, Remote Desktop Services deployments can require additional roles (e.g., RD Session Host, RD Gateway) and client access licenses (RDS CALs) depending on the use case. This can increase administrative overhead and cost planning complexity. Multi-user or published-app scenarios typically require more design and ongoing maintenance than single-machine remote administration.
Plan & Pricing
Pricing model: Per‑user / per‑device Client Access License (CAL) — license sold per CAL (usage-based).
Official Microsoft Store (US) listings (examples):
- Windows Server 2022 Remote Desktop Services CAL — $220.00 per User CAL (1‑user CAL listing).
- Windows Server 2022 Remote Desktop Services CAL — $220.00 per Device CAL (1‑device CAL listing).
Notes & official context:
- Microsoft documents Remote Desktop Services (RDS) licensing as per‑user or per‑device CALs and also describes purchase/licensing options (volume licensing, SAL/SPLA for service providers, and Azure Virtual Desktop alternatives). Azure Virtual Desktop is a separate Azure service that has its own infrastructure costs and user access-rights considerations.
- Enterprise/volume pricing and reseller/partner channel pricing are not listed on the Microsoft Store product pages and are typically handled through Microsoft Volume Licensing/partners.
Seller details
Microsoft Corporation
Redmond, Washington, United States
1975
Public
https://www.microsoft.com/
https://x.com/Microsoft
https://www.linkedin.com/company/microsoft/
