Windows Server 2019 and Remote Desktop CALs 2022 – A Comprehensive Comparison

In the ever-evolving world of technology, businesses are constantly seeking solutions to enhance their IT infrastructure, improve productivity, and enable efficient remote work. Windows Server and Remote Desktop Services (RDS) are two critical components that play a pivotal role in achieving these goals.

With each iteration, Microsoft continues to introduce innovations that cater to the evolving needs of organizations. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between Windows Server 2019 and Remote Desktop Services CAL 2022, exploring their unique features, benefits, and the reasons why organizations might choose one over the other.

Windows Server 2019 – Building the Foundation of Modern IT

Released in October 2018, Win Server 2019 is the successor to Windows Server 2016 and represents a significant leap forward in Microsoft’s server operating system.

Designed with a focus on stability and reliability, Windows Server 2019 follows the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) model, providing a stable and dependable platform for various workloads.

Key Features of Windows Server 2019

1. Enhanced Security: Security is a paramount concern in today’s digital landscape, and Windows Server 2019 addresses this by introducing advanced security features. Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) provides real-time protection against sophisticated threats, while Shielded Virtual Machines (VMs) safeguard sensitive data from unauthorized access.
2. Hybrid Cloud Integration: With an increasing number of organizations adopting hybrid cloud solutions, Windows Server 2019 offers seamless integration with the Azure cloud. This integration allows organizations to build hybrid solutions that combine the advantages of on-premises infrastructure with the scalability and flexibility of the cloud. The Azure Hybrid Use Benefit enables the use of existing Windows Server licenses in Azure.
3. Storage Migration Service: Migrating data from legacy file servers to modern storage infrastructure can be challenging. Windows Server 2019 addresses this with the Storage Migration Service, which streamlines the migration process, reduces downtime, and simplifies data migration.
4. Windows Admin Center: Windows Admin Center is a browser-based management tool that consolidates server administration tasks into a unified interface. It simplifies the management of servers, clusters, and hyper-converged infrastructure, allowing administrators to perform tasks more efficiently.
5. Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI): Windows Server 2019 strengthens support for Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI), a software-defined approach that combines compute, storage, and networking in a single platform. HCI offers greater scalability, simplified management, and reduced hardware costs.

Remote Desktop CALs 2022 – Empowering Remote Workforce

Remote Desktop CALs (Client Access Licenses) are an integral part of the Remote Desktop Services (RDS) licensing model, allowing users or devices to access virtual desktops or remote applications hosted on a Windows Server. Remote Desktop CALs 2022 introduces several enhancements to meet the growing demands of remote work scenarios.

Key Features of Remote Desktop CALs 2022

1. Enhanced User Experience: Remote Desktop CALs 2022 focuses on delivering an improved user experience during remote sessions. Better graphics and multimedia capabilities ensure smoother video playback and improved performance for graphic-intensive applications, creating a seamless and efficient remote work environment.
2. Universal Printing: Printing in virtual environments can be complex, often requiring specific printer drivers. Remote Desktop CALs 2022 introduces the Universal Print feature, which simplifies printing by eliminating the need for intricate printer drivers, ensuring consistent and efficient printing from remote sessions to local printers.
3. End User Insights: To aid IT administrators in delivering a seamless experience to remote users, Remote Desktop CALs 2022 includes end-user insights. These insights allow administrators to monitor user experiences and identify potential issues proactively, leading to more efficient troubleshooting and issue resolution.
4. Azure Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Integration with Azure Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) enables organizations to manage access and permissions more effectively in a remote desktop environment. This integration streamlines administrative tasks and ensures secure access to resources.
5. Security Enhancements: Security is a critical aspect of remote desktop scenarios. Remote Desktop CALs 2022 incorporates several security features, including Azure Active Directory Conditional Access and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), to strengthen the overall security of remote connections.

The Decision – Windows Server 2019 or Remote Desktop CALs 2022?

The decision between Windows Server 2019 and Remote Desktop CALs 2022 depends on the specific needs and priorities of an organization.

When to Choose Windows Server 2019:

1. Stability and Reliability: Organizations that prioritize stability and a predictable update cadence may find Windows Server 2019 appealing. As part of the LTSC model, it offers a consistent experience with extended support and security updates.
2. Hybrid Cloud Adoption: For organizations seeking to adopt hybrid cloud solutions, Windows Server 2019’s enhanced integration with Azure provides a seamless pathway for integrating on-premises infrastructure with Azure cloud services.
3. Infrastructure Modernization: Windows Server 2019’s features, such as the Storage Migration Service and Windows Admin Center, offer valuable tools for organizations looking to modernize their IT infrastructure and update legacy systems.

When to Choose Remote Desktop CALs 2022:

1. Enhanced User Experience: Organizations with remote workforces or virtual desktop environments can benefit significantly from Remote Desktop CALs 2022’s improved graphics capabilities. A smoother and more efficient user experience during remote sessions can lead to higher productivity and satisfaction.
2. Streamlined Printing: The Universal Print feature in Remote Desktop CALs 2022 simplifies printing in virtual environments, reducing complexities associated with printer drivers. This results in more efficient and consistent printing from remote sessions to local printers.
3. Azure Integration and Advanced Security: For organizations invested in Azure services and advanced security features, Remote Desktop CALs 2022 offers valuable integration with Azure RBAC and enhanced security options, bolstering the overall security of remote connections.

Conclusion

Windows Server 2019 and Remote Desktop CALs 2022 are indispensable components in today’s technology-driven business landscape. They offer organizations powerful tools for managing IT infrastructure and empowering remote workforces. The decision between the two depends on specific business needs, long-term strategies, and the desire for stability, security, and enhanced user experiences.

By carefully evaluating these factors, organizations can make informed decisions, ensuring that they leverage the full potential of both Windows Server 2019 and Remote Desktop CALs 2022 to create a productive, secure, and future-ready digital workspace.

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