If you refuse to pay for RDS CALs, consider ditching Windows Server entirely for the remote desktop use case. Linux with XRDP provides a "free" RDS-like experience.

You can check how many grace period days remain with this command:

: Use $obj = gwmi -namespace "Root/CIMV2/TerminalServices" Win32_TerminalServiceSetting; $obj.GetGracePeriodDays() . Usage in Non-Production Environments

Once the grace period expires, you must choose:

: Once these 120 days end, users will be blocked from connecting until a valid Microsoft RDS License Server is activated and licenses are installed. Synaptica Srl 2. Built-in "Administrative Mode" (Always Free) If your goal is just to manage the server, you do need to buy RDS CALs. Spiceworks Community : Supports up to two simultaneous remote connections for administrative tasks. How to use

| Feature | Per Device CAL | Per User CAL | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Physical device | User in Active Directory | | Best for | Multiple shifts using same computers | Users with dedicated devices | | Tracking | Tracked by license server regardless of AD membership | Tracked by license server (requires AD) | | Revocation | Up to 20% can be revoked | Cannot revoke | | Temporary license | 52–89 days initially | Not available | | Overallocation risk | Cannot be overallocated | Can be overallocated (compliance risk) |

Confirm and click , then reboot the server when prompted. 2. Confirm the Grace Period Status

Once the 120-day clock hits zero, the free access ends abruptly. Symptoms of Expiration

Open Server Manager, click "Add roles and features," and select "Remote Desktop Services."