Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-15

How to Fix: Error 'Unexpected licence packet' with xfreerdp connection to Windows Server 2012

Technical issue analysis for unexpected license packet error with xfreerdp connection to Windows Server 2012.

Quick Answer: Try using a different encryption algorithm or updating the freerdp package to resolve the issue.

📋 Table of Contents

  1. 🛑 Root Causes of the Error
  2. ✅ Best Solutions to Fix It
  3. 🎯 Final Words

The 'Unexpected licence packet' error occurs when attempting to connect to a Windows Server 2012 using an RDP client on Xubuntu 14.04.1 LTS 64 bit. This issue affects users who are trying to establish a Remote Desktop Protocol connection with non-administrator accounts, resulting in an inability to attach to the console.

This error can be frustrating for users as it prevents them from accessing their remote desktop session. In this guide, we will explore the possible causes of this error and provide steps to resolve the issue.

🛑 Root Causes of the Error

  • The primary reason for this error is related to the licensing component of the Terminal Services on the Windows Server 2012. The client software (freerdp or xfreerdp) receives an unexpected license packet, which prevents it from establishing a valid connection.
  • Another possible cause could be the encryption algorithm used by the RDP client. However, this is less likely to be the root cause of the issue.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Enabling the 'Allow non-encrypted connections' option on the Windows Server 2012

  1. Step 1: On the Windows Server 2012, navigate to the Remote Desktop Services settings by typing `rmce` in the Run dialog box (Windows key + R).
  2. Step 2: In the Remote Desktop Services console, click on 'Properties' and then select the 'Security' tab.
  3. Step 3: Check the box next to 'Allow non-encrypted connections' and click 'OK' to save the changes.
  4. Step 4: Restart the Remote Desktop Service to apply the changes.

Configuring the xfreerdp client to use a specific license key

  1. Step 1: Download and install the latest version of xfreerdp from the official website.
  2. Step 2: Edit the `/etc/xfreerdp.conf` file using a text editor (e.g., nano or vim).
  3. Step 3: Add the following line to the file: `license=none` This will disable the licensing component for non-administrator accounts. Save and close the file.
  4. Step 4: Restart the xfreerdp service to apply the changes.

🎯 Final Words

By enabling the 'Allow non-encrypted connections' option on the Windows Server 2012 or configuring the xfreerdp client to use a specific license key, you should be able to resolve the 'Unexpected licence packet' error and establish a successful RDP connection with non-administrator accounts.

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