Downgrade Windows server RDS cals 2025 to Windows server RDS cals 2022 for beeing compatible with Windows server 2022 , how can i do that ?

Question

I recently purchased Windows Server RDS CALs (Remote Desktop Services Client Access Licenses) for 2025. However, I need these CALs to be compatible with Windows Server 2022.

I understand that newer versions of RDS CALs are not backward-compatible, so I believe a downgrade to Windows Server RDS CALs 2022 is required. Could someone guide me through the process of downgrading the RDS CALs?

Answer 1

Hello,

To downgrade your RDS CAL, you will need to contact the Microsoft Clearinghouse directly. You can find the appropriate phone numbers here: Remote Desktop Server Licensing

If your RD License role is installed on Server 2025, even though the session host is running version 2022, compatibility should still be maintained.

I hope this information helps.

Best regards,

Karlie Weng

Answer 2

Hi Karlie,

Thank you for your assistance.

The license I currently have is for Windows Server 2022, and the RDS CALs are for 2025. I want to use these RDS licenses with Windows Server 2022. This means the licenses must be downgraded to be compatible with the server.

By the way, if you have any reference links or documentation on how to link Windows Server 2022 (Active Directory) with an RDS server running Windows Server 2025, I would greatly appreciate it.

Best regard,

Firas

Answer 3

Hi Firas,

I'm a bit unclear on your requirements to "link Windows Server 2022 (Active Directory) with an RDS server running Windows Server 2025." Are you referring to the process of adding the RDS server to the domain? Or are you asking about how to assign User CALs within a domain environment?

Answer 4

hello,

Okay, let me explain my requirement:

I have two servers:

1. A Windows Server 2022 acting as my Active Directory (AD).
2. A Windows Server 2025.

I currently have 10 RDS CAL 2025 licenses. I would like to install these licenses on the Windows Server 2025 (as the RDS licensing server), allowing 10 users to access the Windows Server 2022 remotely.

Could you please confirm if this setup is possible and provide any guidance on how to implement it?

Answer 5

Hello,

It is technically possible to install the Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) role on a server that also has the Domain Controller (DC) role; however, this is not recommended due to security and performance concerns.

In a domain environment, you will need per-user Client Access Licenses (CALs) instead of per-device CALs for Remote Desktop Services (RDS).

For your reference, here are some resources on RDS and RDS CALs:

Remote Desktop Services roles | Microsoft Learn

License your RDS deployment with client access licenses (CALs) | Microsoft Learn