Configuring Remote Desktop Session Host Server 2016

Welcome, Dev! In today’s article, we will be discussing how to configure Remote Desktop Session Host on Windows Server 2016. Remote Desktop Services is an essential part of any organization, and it’s important to properly set up and configure the server to ensure smooth operations. This guide will cover everything you need to know about Remote Desktop Services configuration, including installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.

What is Remote Desktop Session Host?

Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) is a role service in Remote Desktop Services that enables multiple concurrent user sessions on Windows Server. RDSH allows users to access applications and desktops from anywhere, at any time, with a secure and reliable connection. RDSH is an essential component of any remote work environment and allows businesses to increase efficiency and productivity, while reducing costs.

Installation and Configuration

The installation of Remote Desktop Session Host on Windows Server 2016 is a straightforward process. First, you need to install the Remote Desktop Services role on your server. Follow these steps:

Step
Description
Step 1
Open Server Manager and select Add Roles and Features.
Step 2
Select Role-based or feature-based installation and click Next.
Step 3
Select the server on which you want to install RDSH and click Next.
Step 4
Select the Remote Desktop Services role and click Next.
Step 5
Select the Remote Desktop Session Host role service and click Next.
Step 6
Click Install to start the installation process.

Once the installation is complete, you will need to configure RDSH to allow remote connections. Follow these steps:

Step
Description
Step 1
Open Server Manager and select Remote Desktop Services.
Step 2
Select Overview and click Tasks > Edit Deployment Properties.
Step 3
Select the RD Licensing tab and configure the licensing settings.
Step 4
Select the RD Session Host tab and configure the session settings.
Step 5
Click Apply and then OK to save the changes.

Remote Desktop Connection Broker

The Remote Desktop Connection Broker is a key component of Remote Desktop Services. It manages the connections between the clients and the RDSH servers. The Connection Broker also ensures that users have a consistent experience when connecting to RDSH servers. Follow these steps to configure the Connection Broker:

Step
Description
Step 1
Open Server Manager and select Remote Desktop Services.
Step 2
Select Overview and click Tasks > Edit Deployment Properties.
Step 3
Select the RD Connection Broker tab and configure the settings.
Step 4
Click Apply and then OK to save the changes.

Remote Desktop Gateway

The Remote Desktop Gateway allows users to connect to RDSH servers from outside the corporate network, through an encrypted connection. Follow these steps to configure the Remote Desktop Gateway:

Step
Description
Step 1
Open Server Manager and select Remote Desktop Services.
Step 2
Select Overview and click Tasks > Edit Deployment Properties.
Step 3
Select the RD Gateway tab and configure the settings, including SSL certificate and authentication.
Step 4
Click Apply and then OK to save the changes.

RemoteApp

RemoteApp allows individual applications to be delivered remotely to users, without the need for a full desktop session. Follow these steps to configure RemoteApp:

Step
Description
Step 1
Open Server Manager and select Remote Desktop Services.
Step 2
Select Overview and click Add RD RemoteApp.
Step 3
Follow the wizard to select the application to be published and configure the settings.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hardware requirements for Remote Desktop Session Host Server 2016?

The hardware requirements for Remote Desktop Session Host Server 2016 depend on the number of users and applications that will be hosted. As a general rule, you should have at least 4 GB of RAM and 50 GB of available hard disk space for the operating system and Remote Desktop Services. You should also ensure that your network connection is fast enough to support the number of users.

Can I use Remote Desktop Services with a virtual machine?

Yes, you can use Remote Desktop Services with a virtual machine. However, it’s important to ensure that the virtual machine meets the hardware requirements and that the virtualization software is compatible with Remote Desktop Services.

What is the difference between RemoteApp and Remote Desktop Connection?

RemoteApp allows individual applications to be delivered remotely to users, without the need for a full desktop session. Remote Desktop Connection, on the other hand, allows users to connect to a full desktop session on a remote computer. RemoteApp is useful when users need to access specific applications, while Remote Desktop Connection is useful when users need access to the entire desktop environment.

What are the security implications of using Remote Desktop Services?

Remote Desktop Services can be vulnerable to security threats if not properly configured. It’s important to follow security best practices, such as using strong passwords and limiting access to the RDSH servers. You should also ensure that your network is secure and that your firewalls are properly configured.

What should I do if I encounter problems with Remote Desktop Services?

If you encounter problems with Remote Desktop Services, you should first check the event logs for any errors. You should also ensure that all the necessary services are running and that the RDSH servers have sufficient resources. If the problem persists, you may need to consult with a specialist or contact Microsoft support for assistance.

Conclusion

Configuring Remote Desktop Session Host Server 2016 is an essential task for any organization that uses Remote Desktop Services. Proper configuration ensures that users have a secure and reliable connection, and that applications and desktops are accessible from anywhere. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your Remote Desktop Services are properly set up and configured, and that your organization is benefiting from the increased efficiency and productivity that comes with remote work environments.