If you’re an IT administrator who manages a Windows Server 2016, you may have run into the issue where you’ve hit the maximum number of allowed Remote Desktop sessions. This can be a frustrating experience, especially when you need to grant access to more users. However, fear not! In this blog post, we’ll go over the different methods you can use to increase the number of RDP sessions on your Windows Server 2016.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of How to Increase Rdp Sessions on Windows Server 2016
The challenge here is pretty straightforward: Windows Server 2016 has a limit on the number of remote desktop connections that can be made at any given time. This default setting can be restrictive to some users and IT admins who need to regularly access the server. That’s why it’s important to know how to increase RDP sessions on Windows Server 2016.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before we get started on the different methods to increase RDP sessions on Windows Server 2016, there are a few things you should prepare for:
1. Access to the Windows Server 2016 as an administrator.
2. Familiarity with editing the Windows Registry.
3. A backup of your server’s Registry (just in case).
4. Some free time to complete the process.
Method 1: Modify the Registry
The first method we’ll cover is modifying the server’s Registry. This method should be used with caution, as making mistakes can lead to serious issues on the server. However, if you follow these steps carefully, you’ll be able to increase the maximum number of RDP sessions on your Windows Server 2016.
1. Open the Registry Editor by pressing the Windows key + R on your keyboard and typing in "regedit".
2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server.
3. Look for the key named "fDenyTSConnection" and double-click on it.
4. Change the "Value data" from 1 to 0.
5. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp.
6. Look for the key named "MaxInstanceCount" and double-click on it.
7. Change the "Value data" to your desired number of maximum RDP sessions.
8. Click "OK" to save the changes.
Pros:
– Allows for customization of maximum RDP sessions.
– Can be done without any additional software.
Cons:
– Modifying the Registry can potentially cause serious issues.
– Not recommended for inexperienced users.
Method 2: Use the Group Policy Editor
Another method to increase RDP sessions on Windows Server 2016 is to use the Group Policy Editor. This method is easier for inexperienced users, as it provides a more user-friendly interface to change the necessary settings.
1. Open the Group Policy Editor by pressing the Windows key + R and typing in "gpedit.msc".
2. Navigate to "Computer Configuration" -> "Administrative Templates" -> "Windows Components" -> "Remote Desktop Services" -> "Remote Desktop Session Host".
3. Look for the policy named "Limit number of connections" and double-click on it.
4. Change the setting from "Enabled" to "Disabled".
5. Click "Apply" and then "OK".
Pros:
– More user-friendly than modifying the Registry.
– Still allows for customization of maximum RDP sessions.
Cons:
– Not as customizable as modifying the Registry.
– May not work on all versions of Windows Server.
Method 3: Use Third-Party Software
If you’re not comfortable modifying the Registry or using the Group Policy Editor, there are also third-party software solutions available that can increase the maximum number of RDP sessions on Windows Server 2016. One popular option is Remote Desktop Commander, which provides additional features such as real-time monitoring and session management.
1. Download and install Remote Desktop Commander on your Windows Server 2016.
2. Follow the setup instructions to configure the software for your needs.
3. Use the software to manage and increase the maximum number of RDP sessions on your server.
Pros:
– User-friendly interface with additional features.
– Can be easier to use for inexperienced users.
Cons:
– Requires additional software to be installed.
– Some software solutions may be paid.
Why Can’t I Increase Rdp Sessions on Windows Server 2016?
There are a few reasons why you may not be able to increase the maximum number of RDP sessions on your Windows Server 2016:
1. You may not have administrator access to the server.
– Fix: Make sure you have the necessary permissions to make changes to the server settings.
2. Your Windows Server 2016 version may not allow for customization of RDP sessions.
– Fix: Check your server version and research which methods will work best for your specific version.
3. You may have made a mistake while modifying the Registry or using the Group Policy Editor.
– Fix: Restore a backup of your Registry, or revert your changes in the Group Policy Editor.
Additional Tips
– Always make a backup of your Registry before making any changes.
– Make sure you have the necessary permissions to make changes to your server’s settings.
– Check which Windows Server 2016 version you have and make sure the methods you’re using are compatible.
– Consider using third-party software for additional features and ease of use.
5 FAQs about How to Increase Rdp Sessions on Windows Server 2016
Q1: How many RDP sessions can I have on Windows Server 2016?
A: The default maximum number of RDP sessions on Windows Server 2016 is 2. However, this can be increased using the methods outlined in this blog post.
Q2: Will increasing RDP sessions on my server cause performance issues?
A: Potentially. It’s important to consider the resources available on your server and whether increasing the maximum number of RDP sessions will cause issues. It’s recommended to monitor the server’s performance after making changes.
Q3: Can I use these methods on other versions of Windows Server?
A: Yes and no. The methods outlined in this blog post may work on other versions of Windows Server, but it’s important to research whether the methods have been updated or changed for different versions.
Q4: Can I increase RDP sessions on my personal computer?
A: No, these methods are specific to Windows Server 2016 and may not work on personal computers.
Q5: Is third-party software required to increase RDP sessions?
A: No, modifying the Registry or using the Group Policy Editor can allow for customization of RDP sessions. However, third-party software may provide additional features and ease of use.
In Conclusion
Increasing the maximum number of RDP sessions on your Windows Server 2016 can be a helpful tool for IT administrators and users alike. With the methods outlined in this blog post, you can customize your server settings to meet your needs and grant access to more users. Just remember to always use caution when making changes to your server’s settings and to monitor its performance after making changes.