The way companies operate has drastically changed in recent years. Hybrid work has become the norm, and organizations must provide employees with secure and reliable access to applications and business data, regardless of their location. Remote Desktop Services (RDS) plays a crucial role in this. With the introduction of RDS 2025, in combination with Windows Server 2025, Microsoft takes an important step forward in performance, security, and user experience. In this blog we discuss what RDS is, why upgrading to RDS 2025 is worthwhile, and how Softtrader can help businesses with affordable pre-owned licenses.
What is RDS?
Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is a component of Windows Server that allows multiple users to remotely access applications and desktops running centrally on a server. This enables companies to let their employees work securely, regardless of location, while all data remains safely stored on the server or in the datacenter.
Key representative versions of RDS include:
RDS 2016: provides stable basic functionality for remote desktops and applications and lays the foundation for modern security and performance.
RDS 2019: expands capabilities with improved cloud integration and security features.
RDS 2022: introduces further enhancements in performance and hybrid integration.
RDS 2025: fully optimized for modern work environments, with advanced security, higher performance, and full support for hybrid scenarios.
Why upgrade to RDS 2025?
RDS 2025 clearly stands out from older versions such as RDS 2019 and 2022 with significant improvements in security, performance, and cloud integration. For companies working with sensitive data or complex applications, this version provides a reliable and future-proof solution.
Key advantages compared to older versions
Enhanced security: while RDS 2019 and 2022 already offered basic protection with encryption and multi-factor authentication, RDS 2025 goes a step further. It uses AI-driven threat detection and advanced encryption for remote desktops. This means sensitive business data, such as financial information or patient records, is better protected against cyberattacks and data breaches. Extended access control and compliance options make it easier for companies to meet strict regulations.
Higher performance: RDS 2025 offers lower latency and faster sessions than RDS 2022, with improved graphics performance for heavy workloads or applications such as CAD and data analysis tools. This boosts employee efficiency and ensures a stable, reliable work environment, even in hybrid scenarios.
Hybrid integration: older versions such as RDS 2019 offered limited cloud functionality and RDS 2022 had restricted hybrid support. In contrast, RDS 2025 works seamlessly with Azure Virtual Desktop and other cloud solutions, enabling organizations to scale flexibly without fully migrating to the cloud.
Compatibility and future-proofing: where older versions were sometimes limited to specific Windows clients or applications, RDS 2025 supports all recent Windows clients and modern software. This prepares the environment for new technologies and applications and ensures that companies can rely on their remote desktop infrastructure in the long term.
Better scalability: RDS 2025 can more easily accommodate additional users, sessions, or workloads without performance drops. Older versions were often more limited in capacity or required additional hardware.
RDS 2025 is designed for optimal performance in combination with Windows. For full functionality, RDS CALs of the same version are required. Here are two examples of license usage with RDS CALs:
An RDS 2025 CAL may be used to grant access to older versions of Windows Server, such as 2019 or 2022. Microsoft allows this so that organizations do not have to purchase new CALs with every server upgrade.
RDS CALs are not “backward compatible” with newer servers. An RDS 2022 CAL cannot be used to access a Windows Server 2025. You must have a CAL of the same version or higher than the server to access it.
User CALs vs. Device CALs
To use RDS 2025, Client Access Licenses (CALs) are required. Microsoft offers two variants:
User CALs: this license is linked to an individual user. Ideal for organizations where employees work with multiple devices, such as a laptop, smartphone, and tablet.
Device CALs: this license is linked to a specific device. Useful for companies where multiple employees share one workstation, for example in call centers or at shared desks.
The choice between User or Device CALs depends on the organization’s work structure. RDS 2025 supports both options, allowing businesses to license flexibly based on their specific situation.
How Softtrader Can Help Businesses
Softtrader enables companies to purchase Windows Server 2025 and RDS 2025 through pre-owned licenses. This makes it possible to benefit from the latest Microsoft technologies at lower costs without compromising on security or functionality.
RDS 2025 in combination with Windows Server 2025 provides significant advantages compared to 2022 and older versions. It includes enhanced security, higher performance, and optimal support for hybrid work models. For businesses that want to work securely, efficiently, and with a future-oriented approach, the upgrade is a logical step.
Softtrader makes the transition affordable and straightforward with pre-owned licenses for both Windows Server 2025 and RDS 2025. Get in touch and discover how your organization can benefit right away. If you are interested in Microsoft Remote Desktop Services 2025, request a quote. Our team is ready to assist with your licensing needs.
FAQ
Is RDS 2025 mandatory if I use Windows Server 2025?
Yes, you need an RDS 2025 CAL if you are using Windows Server 2025. Anyone who wants to use RDS must carefully check which Windows Server version they are running.
What are the main differences between RDS 2022 and RDS 2025?
RDS 2025 offers AI-driven security, better performance, seamless hybrid integration with Azure, and broader compatibility with modern applications.
Can I use my existing RDS CALs for RDS 2025?
No, new CALs are required for RDS 2025 if you do not already have them. You can choose between User CALs and Device CALs depending on your situation. If you purchase the latest RDS 2025 CALs, you can also use them for older versions of Windows Server.
Is RDS 2025 suitable for small businesses?
Yes, RDS 2025 is scalable. It works both for small teams and for large organizations with complex infrastructures. Assess your company’s needs carefully and purchase your CAL licenses in consultation with an experienced vendor.
How secure is RDS 2025?
RDS 2025 uses multi-factor authentication, AI-based threat detection, and advanced encryption. This makes it more secure than earlier versions of Remote Desktop Services.
