Configure Collection In RDS Windows Server 2019

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of configuring collections in Remote Desktop Services (RDS) on Windows Server 2019. Setting up collections allows organizations to restrict user access to remote applications based on departmental needs, ensuring privacy and security. By following these steps, you will learn how to create and manage RDS collections effectively.

Step 1: Install Remote Desktop Services

Before configuring collections, ensure that Remote Desktop Services is installed on your server.

1. Open the Server Manager.
2. Click on "Add roles and features."
3. Select "Remote Desktop Services" and proceed through the wizard to install the necessary components.

Step 2: Open Remote Desktop Services Manager

After installation, access the Remote Desktop Services Manager to manage your collections.

1. In the Server Manager, navigate to "Remote Desktop Services."
2. Click on "Collections" to view existing collections and options to create new ones.

Step 3: Create a New Collection

To create a new RDS collection:

1. In the Collections pane, click on "Tasks."
2. Select "Create Session Collection."
3. Follow the prompts in the wizard:
   • Name your collection.
   • Specify the session host servers to include.
   • Choose user groups that will have access to this collection.

Step 4: Configure Collection Properties

After creating the collection, configure its properties for user access and application publishing.

1. Right-click on the newly created collection and select "Properties."
2. Adjust settings such as:
   • User access permissions.
   • Session time limits.
   • RemoteApp programs you want to publish.

Step 5: Publish Remote Apps

Publishing Remote Apps allows users to access specific applications within the collection.

1. In the collection properties, navigate to the "RemoteApp" tab.
2. Click on "Add RemoteApp programs."
3. Select the applications you want to make available to users.

Step 6: Manage Collections

You can add or remove collections as needed to accommodate changes in your organization.

1. To add a collection, repeat Step 3.
2. To remove a collection, right-click on it in the Collections pane and select "Delete."

Step 7: Monitor and Troubleshoot

Regularly monitor the performance and access of your RDS collections.

1. Use the Remote Desktop Services Manager to view user sessions and resource usage.
2. Check for any errors or issues and troubleshoot as necessary.

Conclusion

Configuring collections in RDS on Windows Server 2019 is an essential step for managing user access to remote applications securely. By following these steps, you can create and maintain collections tailored to your organization's needs. For further learning, consider exploring additional RDS features such as Remote Desktop Web Access and Licensing.