How to Delete an RDP Client License

Deleting the license requires no computer expertise.

Deleting an RDP client license is a relatively simple process for both Windows and Mac computers. The Remote Desktop Protocol, or RDP, allows clients to connect to remote computers and devices. This includes access to and from Macs and PCs as well as devices such as smartphones. The server desktop appears on the client screen and can be navigated seamlessly. A common problem users run into is an error message stating, "The remote session was disconnected because there are no Terminal Server client access licenses available for this computer." The solution is to delete the license registry key.

Instructions

1. Navigate to the registry subkey on the client computer. For Windows, the directory "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\MSLicensing" should be accessed in the registry editor. For Macs, go to "/users/Shared/Microsoft/RDC Crucial Server Information/" in the Finder.

2. Create a backup file of the registry key. For Windows users, click "Export Registry File" under the Registry menu. When prompted, save the file as "mslicensingbackup." For Mac users, select "Duplicate" under the Finder's File menu.

3. Remove the registry subkey on Windows computers via the "Delete" selection on the Edit menu. For Macs, click the folder image once so that it's highlighted. Locate the Action button in Finder, denoted by the gear symbol. From its drop-down menu, select "Move to Trash."

4. Close out of the registry editor if using a PC; exit the Finder window on a Mac. Restart your computer.

5. Attempt to connect to the Terminal Server once the computer has restarted. On Vista and Windows 7 PCs, a message may pop up, stating, "An Error occurred in the Licensing Protocol." In this case, right-click the Remote Desktop Connection shortcut and select "Run as Administrator." This gives the client permission to issue a new registry key.

Tips & Warnings

• Improperly updating a registry can cause serious issues to the computer. Follow instructions carefully and always create a backup file first.

References

• Microsoft Support: Removing Terminal Server Licenses From an RDP Client
• Microsoft TechNet: Troubleshooting Remote Desktop Licensing Error Messages

Resources

• Remote Desktop Connection Client for Mac