I'm having some trouble activating my Remote Desktop Services (RDS) Client Access Licenses (CALs) through the Activate.Microsoft.com portal. I have a Windows Server 2022 that's activated and a pack of genuine Windows 2022 User CALs (Retail). When I go to the portal and try to install the Client Access Licenses, I enter my License Server ID, choose the License Pack, fill in the company name, and set the language. However, when I enter my 25-character RDS CAL key, sometimes I get an error immediately after clicking 'Add,' and other times it seems to go through but errors out when I click 'Next.' Has anyone had success with this portal, or is it more common to just call Microsoft for assistance? For context, we operate in environments without internet access, so my options are limited to either calling or using the web portal.
3 Answers
I've had to use the activation portal a few times since my license type isn't recognized in the RD Licensing Manager, and it usually works for me. But if you're struggling, I'd definitely recommend trying the RD Licensing Manager approach instead—it often works better for most users.
I've always activated my RDS CALs using the RD Licensing Manager on the server itself. It’s usually straightforward and doesn’t involve dealing with the portal unless absolutely necessary. You might want to give that a try!
We just stick with the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager for all our activations. It’s reliable and avoids a lot of the headaches that can come with using the portal.
Yeah, the Licensing Manager is definitely the way to go most of the time. The web portal can be a hassle sometimes.