While this won’t show the full 25-digit key for security reasons, it provides the and Agreement Number , which are the actual "keys" you need for Microsoft support or re-activation. 2. The Digital Search: Check Your Documentation
If you cannot prove ownership—perhaps the license was bought by an IT contractor who is no longer reachable, or the paperwork was lost years ago—Microsoft considers the licenses lost. In this scenario, you are legally required to purchase new RDS CALs.
Method 2: Find the License Server ID via RDS License Manager
Make sure you know which type of CAL you purchased. Per-Device CALs issue a temporary or permanent key to the actual machine, while Per-User CALs allow a specific user to connect from any device. how to find rds license key
The configuration data for the RDS License Server is located here: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\TermServLicensing\Parameters
Click on the tab (or check under the Software tab for CSP purchases). Locate your specific Windows Server RDS version.
No. Once a retail or volume license key is entered into the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager, Microsoft encrypts the data into a local database file ( TLSLic.edb ). Key-finder software programs can often extract the base Windows Server operating system key, but they cannot decrypt or read individual RDS CAL key packs. What should I do if I lost my RDS CAL tracking numbers? While this won’t show the full 25-digit key
For retail CALs (Client Access Licenses), the 25-digit key is usually sent in a confirmation email or printed on a physical COA (Certificate of Authenticity) sticker. 3. The Power User Way: WMI and PowerShell
Under the section, look for your specific Windows Server version Remote Desktop Services CALs.
If the license server lacks internet access but you have a computer that can reach the web, use the Web Browser method: In this scenario, you are legally required to
This won't spit out a hidden key, but it will confirm your (Per User or Per Device) and the Specified Licensing Servers , which helps you track down where the keys were originally installed. Summary of Terms
If you cannot find the licensing server itself, you can look up which server holds the keys by checking the registry of your RD Session Host. Press Windows Key + R , type regedit , and hit .
Search your email for:
You will see your listed. Look at the status icon: a green checkmark means it is activated, while a red icon indicates it is not.