How to Install Remote Desktop Session Host Server 2016 with PowerShell

Hello Dev! If you’re reading this article, chances are you’re interested in learning how to install and configure Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) on Windows Server 2016 using PowerShell. In this article, we’ll be walking you through the process step-by-step, providing useful tips and tricks along the way to ensure a smooth installation. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll be able to deploy RDSH and manage your remote desktop environment with ease.

What is Remote Desktop Session Host?

Before we dive into the installation process, let’s take a moment to explain what Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) is. RDSH is a role service in Windows Server that allows multiple users to simultaneously access a server desktop session. This can be particularly useful in scenarios where users need access to specific applications or resources that are only available on a server machine.

With RDSH, users can connect to the server remotely via Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) and interact with their desktops just as if they were physically sitting in front of the server. They can open applications, save documents, and even print to local printers – all from their remote desktops.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing RDSH with PowerShell

Step 1: Install the Remote Desktop Services Role

The first step in setting up RDSH on your Windows Server 2016 machine is to install the Remote Desktop Services (RDS) role. This can be easily done using PowerShell by following these steps:

Once the installation is complete, you can move on to the next step.

Step 2: Install the Remote Desktop Session Host Role

After installing the RDS role, you’ll need to install the Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) role. This can also be done using PowerShell by following these steps:

After running this command, the Remote Desktop Session Host role will be installed on your server.

Step 3: Configure RDSH Settings

Once the RDSH role has been installed, you’ll need to configure some settings to ensure that your server is properly configured for remote desktop access. Here are the settings that you’ll need to configure:

Configure Remote Desktop Licensing

If you plan on using RDSH in a production environment, you’ll need to configure remote desktop licensing. This can be done using PowerShell by following these steps:

After running this command, the Remote Desktop Licensing role will be installed on your server.

Configure Remote Desktop Session Host Security

It’s important to configure remote desktop session host security to ensure that your server is protected from unauthorized access. You can configure remote desktop security settings using PowerShell by following these steps:

After configuring these settings, your server will be ready for remote desktop access.

Step 4: Configure Firewall Settings

It’s important to configure firewall settings to ensure that your server is accessible from remote locations. You can configure firewall settings using PowerShell by following these steps:

After configuring the firewall settings, your server will be accessible via Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I install RDSH on Windows Server 2012?

A: Yes, you can install RDSH on Windows Server 2012. However, the installation process may differ slightly from the process described in this article.

Q2: Do I need to configure remote desktop licensing?

A: If you plan on using RDSH in a production environment, you’ll need to configure remote desktop licensing to ensure that you’re compliant with Microsoft licensing policies.

Q3: Can I use RDSH to run applications on my server?

A: Yes, you can use RDSH to run applications on your server. Simply install your desired applications on the server and make them available to remote desktop users.

Q4: Can I restrict access to certain applications on my RDSH server?

A: Yes, you can restrict access to certain applications on your RDSH server using AppLocker or Group Policy.

Q5: Can I use PowerShell to manage my RDSH environment?

A: Yes, you can use PowerShell to manage all aspects of your RDSH environment, from installation to configuration to ongoing management.

Conclusion

Installing and configuring Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) on Windows Server 2016 using PowerShell is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to deploy RDSH and manage your remote desktop environment with ease. We hope you found this article helpful and informative!