RDS includes the Remote Desktop Connection Broker, an upgrade to the Windows Server's Session Broker, an administrative set-up tool for both server-based virtualized desktops and traditional Terminal Services remote desktops.

Microsoft is building its VDI infrastructure on the back of the Connection Broker, Hyper-V and Virtual Machine Manager.

RDS fits in a loose grouping with Microsoft's other virtualized desktop software that is part of its popular Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack (), which includes App-V and Enterprise Desktop Virtualization.

Also included are power management features called Core Parking, and deeper integration with PowerShell.

Microsoft is also working on application virtualization for the server, but it will not be part of R2 server. Also not in the release is technology Microsoft acquired when it bought Calista Technologies, which delivers 3D graphics, such as Vista Aero Glass, and multimedia support to virtualized desktops.