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Is it possible to allow multiple Remote Desktop (for multiple users) connexions in Windows 7 pro?

  • Without using some opaque non-open source patch preferably.

I know it was possible in XP pro, but, I found nothing interesting for Seven...

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I take it you mean you want multiple users to connect TO a Windows 7 Professional computer, all at the same time? –  Mark Henderson Nov 30 '10 at 4:59
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3 Answers

up vote 2 down vote accepted

Technically, it's possible. I've seen a set of relatively simple instructions for how to do it. However, it requires replacing a system file that should not be touched (ie: you'll either break your windows updates or have your changes broken when the updates are applied) and it's a major violation of the license.

So for all practical purposes you should just pretend that it can't be done.

I know it was possible in XP pro

The same advice applies for XP. It was possible, but only by violating your license and replacing a system file with an "opaque, non-open source" equivalent of unknown quality.

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unknown quality and possibly a rootkit. That's what I thought, it's not only a violation of the license, but it also creates a significant potential security risk... –  Pascal Qyy Dec 1 '10 at 5:32
The precedent sysadmin of one of my client create a server with Windows 7 like this. Now, I would like to audit it, so: 1) What is the name of the system file replaced, and the manipulation done? 2) Is it possible to reverse the manipulation, or preferable to reinstall the whole system? –  Pascal Qyy Dec 1 '10 at 5:32
Precisions: The strange thing about this computer is that Windows update work perfectly, and SFC /scannow don't replace the patched file (if this is the way used bay this sysadmin)... –  Pascal Qyy Dec 1 '10 at 5:41
I don't remember where I found the instructions, but I do remember part of the process was editing something to trick sfc into believing this file was the original. –  Joel Coel Dec 1 '10 at 13:28
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No, the Remote Desktop feature of Windows 7 only allows a single user to connect at a time. To have a machine which allows multiple people to connect at once you would need a Server OS such as Windows 2008 R2 and some Terminal Server Licenses.

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Desktop versions of Windows are only licensed for 1 concurrent interactive user. Any method which would allow more than 1 interactive user at a time would also be a violation of the EULA. Don't violate your license. Get a server OS along with Remote Desktop Services licenses.

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