Navigate to HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\RCM\GracePeriod . Right-click the GracePeriod key and select . Change the owner to Administrators and grant Full Control . Delete the binary value (often named L$RTCS or similar). Reboot the server. 2. Backing up and Exporting RDS CAL Registry Structures
: For permanent access, you must install the RDS Licensing role and activate legally purchased CALs through the RD Licensing Manager .
This article explains how the RDS grace period works, examines the risks associated with unauthorized registry modifications, and outlines the legitimate methods for managing and resetting RDS CALs within Microsoft's licensing framework. Understanding the RDS Licensing Grace Period rds cal license registry key free
There is a licensing grace period of 120 Days during which no license server is required. Microsoft Learn How to Configure Remote Desktop Licensing Mode - TSplus
Organizations should consider the following recommendations: Delete the binary value (often named L$RTCS or similar)
Best practices for RDS licensing management
System administrators frequently modify registry keys to resolve legitimate connection errors, reset stuck grace periods during deployment delays, or fix corrupted client stores. 1. Resolving the "Protocol Error" via MSLicensing Deletion Backing up and Exporting RDS CAL Registry Structures
Open the and navigate to Add Roles and Features .
For the changes to take effect, restart the Remote Desktop Services service via services.msc , or completely reboot the server. Upon reboot, a new 120-day counter will begin. Rebuilding a Corrupt RDS CAL Registry Instance
While resetting the registry key is technically possible, it is not a solution for free or perpetual RDS CALs. The primary reason this method is widely discussed is for use in where the administrator needs to extend a testing period without the immediate need for licenses.
While administrators often seek temporary workarounds during testing or migration phases, relying on unverified registry hacks to avoid licensing costs can compromise server stability and violate software compliance policies.