What is the terminal server called now?

What is a Terminal Server Called Now?

The term “Terminal Server” is a legacy name, harking back to the earlier days of Microsoft’s remote access technology. While the core functionality remains, the official name has evolved. Today, what was once known as Windows Terminal Server is now called Remote Desktop Session Host (RD Session Host).

RD Session Host is a role you can install on a Windows Server operating system. This role empowers the server with Remote Desktop Services, enabling it to host multiple, simultaneous user sessions. Think of it as a gateway allowing numerous users to connect to and work on the server remotely, each with their own independent desktop experience. This is achieved through the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), the underlying technology that facilitates these connections.

The shift from “Terminal Server” to “Remote Desktop Session Host” reflects a broader change in Microsoft’s terminology and a better articulation of the server’s role. While the old name implied a simple terminal interface, RD Session Host more accurately describes the capability of hosting full desktop sessions remotely. This nuanced change highlights the evolution from simple command-line interfaces to the rich graphical environments users access today.

While the name has changed, the core purpose remains: providing remote access to a Windows server. Understanding this evolution in terminology helps navigate the current landscape of remote desktop solutions and clarifies the role of RD Session Host within a Windows Server environment. So, while the term “Terminal Server” is still occasionally used colloquially, remember that the official and technically correct term is now Remote Desktop Session Host.