Citrix 4 3 Citrix License Server

The Citrix License Server is the first component we install in our XenDesktop environment. The reason is that when we install the Delivery Controller, it will ask us for license details, so the License Server must already be in place. For this lab a dedicated VM is created in Hyper-V, which will be turned into the License Server (hostname XDLIC).

Before installing, it is worth checking the Citrix website for the License Server prerequisites. You will need a supported version of .NET Framework and a supported hypervisor. Citrix recommends running the License Server on its own machine. To find the exact, case-sensitive hostname that the License Server will publish, open a command prompt and type:

hostname

Installation steps

  • Mount the XenDesktop ISO and double-click the autorun selection that brings up the splash screen.
  • Choose to install only the License Server (the XenApp/XenDesktop installer offers it as an essential component too — same result, different branding).
  • Accept the license agreement and click Next.
  • Acknowledge the dependency on the Web Services for License Administration console.
  • Keep the default ports or change them as needed; let the installer configure the firewall rules automatically.
  • Click Install and wait a few minutes for completion.

Once the installer finishes, click Finish: the License Server is now installed and ready to host your Citrix license files. In the next video we will manage the License Server through the console.

Summary

This lesson covers the installation and setup of the Citrix License Server, the foundational component required before deploying Citrix Delivery Controllers. The video demonstrates checking system requirements (including .NET Framework and SQL Server), downloading the Citrix License Server ISO, and walking through the straightforward installation process step-by-step. Key topics include finding the server hostname via command line, configuring firewall rules, and accepting licensing agreements during setup.

Key points

  • Citrix License Server must be installed before configuring Delivery Controllers, as they require license server details during deployment
  • System prerequisites include .NET Framework and a supported SQL Server database to manage product licenses
  • Use the 'hostname' command to identify the server's exact name for reference during installation and configuration
  • The installation follows a simple automated wizard with default options that can be customized for firewall rules
  • Firewall configuration for the license server can be handled automatically or manually during the installation process

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of installing Citrix License Server first?

The Citrix License Server is the foundational component needed because the Delivery Controller will request license server details during its installation. It must be configured in advance to provide this information.

What are the main system requirements for installing Citrix License Server?

The main requirements are .NET Framework and a supported SQL Server instance to manage and store product licensing information.

How do you find the server hostname for Citrix License Server configuration?

Open the command prompt and type 'hostname' to retrieve the exact hostname of the server, which is case-sensitive and needed for proper identification in the Citrix environment.