Executive Summary

Many organizations deploy virtual desktop infrastructure and other server-based desktop solutions based on Microsoft’s Windows Server Remote Desktop Services (RDS) or similar software from vendors such as Citrix or VMware. Server-based desktops are deployed to reduce overall client management costs, better secure data, and deliver Windows applications to tablets, smartphones, and other devices.

No matter which vendor supplies the overall server-based desktop solution, an organization must properly license Microsoft desktop applications (such as the Office suite), the Microsoft OS that runs them, and the Microsoft server infrastructure used to create and manage server-based desktops. Organizations considering server-based desktops need to factor Microsoft-related licensing costs into their architectural decisions and deployment sizing plans. Customers already using server-based desktops need to understand potential licensing liabilities in the event of a compliance check, which usually subjects this area to close scrutiny.