Table of Contents
- Struggling with RDS Licensing? Here’s How to Solve Clearinghouse Issues!
- What Is Microsoft Clearinghouse?
- The Problem: Server Unavailability
- Reported Causes
- Steps to Troubleshoot
- Solution 1: Verify Internet Connectivity
- Solution 2: Switch Connection Methods
- Solution 3: Check Licensing Configuration
- Solution 4: Refresh Certificates
- Solution 5: Contact Microsoft Support
- Observations from Administrators
Struggling with RDS Licensing? Here’s How to Solve Clearinghouse Issues!
Microsoft Clearinghouse plays a critical role in Remote Desktop Services (RDS) by activating license servers and managing license key packages. Recently, administrators have reported issues with accessing the Clearinghouse server, preventing RDS license activation. Here’s an analysis of the problem and potential solutions.
What Is Microsoft Clearinghouse?
- A database that tracks activated RDS license servers and issued license key packages.
- Essential for activating new licenses or reinstalling existing ones.
- Accessible via three methods: automatic internet connection, web browser, or telephone.
Since February 21, 2025, administrators have faced errors when attempting RDS activation. The issue affects both Windows Server 2019 and 2022. Key symptoms include:
- Error message: “The License Installation Wizard indicates that the Remote Desktop Licensing Manager has not been detected.”
- Firewall logs show no blocked connections.
- Upgrading servers to TLS 1.2 did not resolve the issue.
Reported Causes
- Microsoft Clearinghouse Outage: Multiple sources confirm the server was inaccessible, likely due to a service outage.
- TLS Compatibility Issues: Some speculate that Clearinghouse may have issues with TLS 1.2 or specific ciphers.
- Connection Method Failures:
- Automatic activation fails for some users.
- Telephone support is unreliable in regions like Germany.
Steps to Troubleshoot
If you’re facing this issue, try the following:
Solution 1: Verify Internet Connectivity
- Ensure the server can access the internet over TCP port 443.
- Rule out packet inspection or firewall restrictions.
Solution 2: Switch Connection Methods
- Use the web browser method to manually activate licenses.
- Contact Microsoft via telephone if internet methods fail.
Solution 3: Check Licensing Configuration
- Confirm that RD Licensing mode is set correctly (Per User or Per Device).
- Ensure the license server is activated and has sufficient CALs (Client Access Licenses).
Solution 4: Refresh Certificates
- Backup and delete X509 certificate registry keys under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\RCM.
- Restart and reactivate the RD Licensing server.
Solution 5: Contact Microsoft Support
Open a support ticket to escalate unresolved issues.
Observations from Administrators
- Some users report intermittent success after retrying activations.
- German administrators noted improved service as of February 26, 2025, suggesting partial restoration.
This issue highlights the dependency on Microsoft’s infrastructure for RDS licensing. Alternative activation methods (browser or phone) are critical backups during outages. Administrators should monitor updates from Microsoft regarding server status.