Simultaneous RDP Sessions on Windows Server 2019

Maximizing Efficiency: A Step-by-Step Guide to Increasing Simultaneous RDP Sessions on Windows Server 2019

by

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a powerful tool that allows users to access and control a remote computer over a network. It provides a convenient way to remotely manage servers, troubleshoot issues, and access files and applications from anywhere in the world. One of the key features of RDP is the ability to have multiple simultaneous sessions, which allows multiple users to connect to a Windows Server 2019 machine at the same time. In this guide, we will explore how to increase the number of simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019, maximizing efficiency and productivity.

Understanding Simultaneous RDP Sessions

Simultaneous RDP sessions refer to the ability to have multiple users connected to a Windows Server 2019 machine at the same time using RDP. By default, Windows Server 2019 allows only two simultaneous RDP sessions, which can be limiting in certain scenarios. Increasing the number of simultaneous RDP sessions can greatly enhance productivity, as it allows more users to connect and work on the server simultaneously. This is particularly useful in environments where multiple users need to access and manage the server simultaneously, such as in a corporate environment or a remote team setting.

Benefits of Increasing Simultaneous RDP Sessions

Increasing the number of simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019 offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it allows for better collaboration and teamwork, as multiple users can work on the server simultaneously. This is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple team members need to access and manage the server at the same time. Secondly, it improves efficiency and productivity by reducing the waiting time for users to connect to the server. With more simultaneous sessions available, users can quickly connect and start working without delays. Lastly, increasing simultaneous RDP sessions provides better scalability, allowing the server to accommodate more users as the demand increases.

Checking the Current Number of RDP Sessions on Windows Server 2019

Before increasing the number of simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019, it is important to check the current number of sessions. This will help you understand the starting point and ensure that the changes you make are effective. To check the current number of RDP sessions, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to the Windows Server 2019 machine as an administrator.
  2. Open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc.
  3. Go to the “Users” tab in the Task Manager.
  4. Look for the “Remote Desktop” section, which displays the current number of active RDP sessions.

By checking the current number of RDP sessions, you will have a baseline to compare against after making the necessary changes to increase the number of simultaneous sessions.

Increasing Simultaneous RDP Sessions Using Group Policy Editor

Group Policy Editor is a powerful tool that allows administrators to manage various aspects of Windows settings and configurations. It can also be used to increase the number of simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Log in to the Windows Server 2019 machine as an administrator.
  2. Press Win+R to open the Run dialog box.
  3. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
  4. In the Group Policy Editor, navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Connections.
  5. Double-click on the “Limit number of connections” policy.
  6. Select the “Enabled” option.
  7. Set the maximum number of simultaneous RDP sessions you want to allow.
  8. Click OK to save the changes.

After making these changes, the number of simultaneous RDP sessions will be increased according to the value you set in the Group Policy Editor.

Increasing Simultaneous RDP Sessions Using Registry Editor

Registry Editor is another method to increase the number of simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Log in to the Windows Server 2019 machine as an administrator.
  2. Press Win+R to open the Run dialog box.
  3. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  4. In the Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server.
  5. Look for the fDenyTSConnections key and double-click on it.
  6. Change the value from 1 to 0 and click OK to save the changes.
  7. Look for the fSingleSessionPerUser key and double-click on it.
  8. Change the value from 1 to 0 and click OK to save the changes.

After making these changes in the Registry Editor, the number of simultaneous RDP sessions will be increased on Windows Server 2019.

Increasing Simultaneous RDP Sessions Using RDP Wrapper Library

RDP Wrapper Library is a third-party tool that allows you to increase the number of simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Download the latest version of RDP Wrapper Library from the official GitHub repository.
  2. Extract the downloaded ZIP file to a location on your Windows Server 2019 machine.
  3. Open the extracted folder and run the install.bat file as an administrator.
  4. Wait for the installation process to complete.
  5. Once the installation is complete, run the RDPConf.exe file.
  6. In the RDP Wrapper Configuration window, navigate to the “Listener state” section.
  7. Check the box next to “Allow RDP” to enable RDP connections.
  8. Click the “Apply” button to save the changes.

By using RDP Wrapper Library, you can increase the number of simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019 without modifying the system files directly.

Enabling multiple RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019 using PowerShell

Simply run the Powershell commands below as Administrator from your Windows Instance:

	PS:\> Import-Module ServerManager
	PS:\> Add-WindowsFeature RDS-RD-Server
	PS:\> Add-WindowsFeature RDS-Licensing

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Increasing Simultaneous RDP Sessions

While increasing the number of simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019, you may encounter some common issues. Here are a few troubleshooting steps to help you resolve them:

  1. Ensure that you have administrative privileges when making changes in Group Policy Editor or Registry Editor.
  2. Double-check the settings you modified in Group Policy Editor or Registry Editor to ensure they are correct.
  3. Restart the Windows Server 2019 machine after making changes to apply the new settings.
  4. Check for any conflicting policies or settings that may be preventing the increase in simultaneous RDP sessions.
  5. Verify that the RDP Wrapper Library is compatible with your version of Windows Server 2019 and update it if necessary.
  6. Disable any firewall or security software that may be blocking RDP connections.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you can overcome common issues and successfully increase the number of simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019.

Best Practices for Maximizing Efficiency with Increased Simultaneous RDP Sessions

To maximize efficiency and make the most of increased simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019, consider the following best practices:

  1. Regularly monitor the performance of the server to ensure it can handle the increased number of simultaneous sessions.
  2. Implement strong security measures, such as using complex passwords and enabling two-factor authentication, to protect the server from unauthorized access.
  3. Allocate sufficient system resources, such as CPU, memory, and disk space, to handle the increased workload from multiple simultaneous sessions.
  4. Regularly update and maintain the server’s operating system and applications to ensure they are secure and stable.
  5. Implement session timeouts or idle session limits to automatically disconnect inactive sessions and free up resources.
  6. Educate users on best practices for using RDP, such as logging off when not actively using the server and avoiding resource-intensive tasks that may impact other users.

By following these best practices, you can ensure a smooth and efficient experience when using increased simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019.

Conclusion

Increasing the number of simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019 can greatly enhance productivity and collaboration in various settings. Whether you are managing a corporate environment or working with a remote team, maximizing efficiency is crucial. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can increase the number of simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019 and make the most of this powerful tool. Remember to check the current number of RDP sessions, choose the appropriate method for increasing the sessions, and troubleshoot any common issues that may arise. With the right configuration and best practices in place, you can unlock the full potential of simultaneous RDP sessions on Windows Server 2019.

See also

Systems Engineering: https://spca.education/category/systems-engineering/

Share on social network:

Leave a Comment