How to Deploy RemoteApp with Group Policy: A Simple Guide for SMBs

RemoteApp Deployment Doesn’t Need to Be Complicated

If your business uses Remote Desktop Services (RDS) and you’re looking for a smooth way to roll out RemoteApp programs to your team, Group Policy is your friend. This guide walks you through how to deploy RemoteApp with Group Policy.

We work with a lot of Denver-based businesses that need reliable access to key apps, especially in hybrid or field-based environments like construction or healthcare. Setting up RemoteApps properly helps your team stay productive (without drowning in login screens or lag).

Before You Start: What You’ll Need

To make sure everything goes smoothly, here’s what your RDS setup should already have in place:

A server running the RD Web Access service
A collection that’s already set up with the RemoteApp programs you want to deploy
Client devices on Windows 8 or later
(Optional but highly recommended): Single Sign-On (SSO) setup for a smoother user experience

Need help setting up RDS or SSO? We’ve done this a hundred times and are happy to walk you through it.

Step-by-Step: Deploy RemoteApp with Group Policy

Here’s how to roll out RemoteApp programs across your network using Group Policy:

1. Open Group Policy Management

On your domain controller (or using RSAT tools), open the Group Policy Management Console.

2. Create and Link a New GPO

Right-click in your target OU (Organizational Unit) and select Create a GPO in this domain, and Link it here.

Name your GPO something like RemoteApp Deployment for easy tracking.

3. Edit the New GPO

Right-click the new GPO and hit Edit.

4. Navigate to the Right Setting

In the GPO editor, go to:

User Configuration → Policies → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Remote Desktop Services → RemoteApp and Desktop Connections

5. Enable the Default Connection URL

Find the policy called Specify default connection URL.

Set it to Enabled, then enter the following URL (replacing your domain):

https://your-rdweb-url/rdweb/feed/webfeed.aspx

Click Apply and OK to save.

6. Close the GPO Editor

That’s it. The policy is now ready to push to users.

What Happens After You Deploy RemoteApp with Group Policy?

Once the policy applies, users will see the RemoteApp programs show up directly in their Start menu. No extra steps, no extra support calls. It just works.

If you’re still on Windows 7 (we won’t judge, but we’ll certainly raise an eyebrow), RemoteApp deployments may need extra steps or a manual setup. It’s worth upgrading for smoother compatibility and better security.

Looking for Alternatives?

Deploying RemoteApp with Group Policy is a great option for domain-joined machines, but if you’re managing remote or non-domain devices, consider using Microsoft Endpoint Manager (Intune) or a third-party RMM tool. Microsoft’s RemoteApp overview has more on advanced scenarios.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple and Scalable

If your workforce is growing or getting more mobile, RemoteApp is a smart way to give people access to the tools they need without overcomplicating things. Group Policy makes deployment consistent and scalable.