RDP Not Working on Windows? Here’s How to Fix It

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) allows you to connect to and control a computer from a remote location. However, sometimes RDP refuses to work. This article provides comprehensive troubleshooting steps to resolve RDP connection issues in Windows.

Common RDP Problems and Quick Checks

Before diving into detailed solutions, perform these quick checks:

  • Network Connectivity: Ensure both computers are connected to the network and can ping each other.
  • RDP Enabled: Verify that Remote Desktop is enabled on the target computer.
  • Firewall: Windows Firewall or third-party firewalls might be blocking RDP.
  • Credentials: Double-check the username and password.
  • Correct IP Address/Hostname: Confirm you’re using the right IP address or hostname.

Troubleshooting Steps

If the quick checks don’t solve the problem, proceed with the following steps:

1. Verify Remote Desktop is Enabled

  • Windows 10/11:
    1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
    2. Click on System, then Remote Desktop.
    3. Toggle the Remote Desktop switch to On.
    4. Ensure that “Require computers to use Network Level Authentication (NLA) to connect” is toggled off for basic troubleshooting (you can re-enable later for enhanced security).
  • Older Windows Versions:
    1. Press Win + R, type sysdm.cpl, and press Enter.
    2. Go to the Remote tab.
    3. Select Allow remote connections to this computer.
    4. Click Apply and OK.

2. Check Firewall Settings

Windows Firewall might be blocking RDP. Here’s how to check and configure it:

  • Allow RDP Through Windows Firewall:
    1. Search for “Windows Defender Firewall” in the Start menu.
    2. Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
    3. Click Change settings (you’ll need administrator privileges).
    4. Locate Remote Desktop in the list.
    5. Ensure both Private and Public are checked.
    6. Click OK.
  • Third-Party Firewalls: If you’re using a third-party firewall, consult its documentation to allow RDP connections (usually port 3389).

3. Verify RDP Service is Running

The Remote Desktop Services service needs to be running on the target computer.

  • Steps:
    1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
    2. Locate Remote Desktop Services in the list.
    3. Ensure the Status is Running. If not, right-click and select Start.
    4. Right-click Remote Desktop Services again and select Properties.
    5. In the Startup type dropdown, select Automatic.
    6. Click Apply and OK.

4. Check Network Level Authentication (NLA)

NLA provides an extra layer of security but can sometimes cause issues. Try disabling it temporarily for troubleshooting.

  • Steps:
    1. Press Win + R, type sysdm.cpl, and press Enter.
    2. Go to the Remote tab.
    3. Uncheck Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication (recommended).
    4. Click Apply and OK.
    5. Note: Re-enable NLA after troubleshooting if possible for security reasons.

5. Verify the RDP Listener is Working

Sometimes the RDP listener might not be active. This can be checked through the registry editor.

  • Steps:
    1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter. Warning: Incorrectly modifying the registry can cause serious problems. Back up the registry before making changes.
    2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp
    3. Check the value of PortNumber. The default value is d3d (hexadecimal) which is 3389 in decimal.
    4. If the port is different or the key is missing, restore it to the default value or create the missing key (advanced).

6. Check Group Policy Settings (for Domain Environments)

In a domain environment, Group Policy settings can override local settings. Check if any Group Policies are blocking RDP.

  • Steps:
    1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter (this only works on Professional/Enterprise editions of Windows).
    2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Connections.
    3. Check if any policies are configured that limit RDP connections (e.g., “Allow users to connect remotely using Remote Desktop Services”).
    4. If a policy is enabled and blocking RDP, either disable the policy or configure it to allow connections.

7. Update Network Adapter Drivers

Outdated or corrupted network adapter drivers can sometimes cause connectivity problems, including RDP issues.

  • Steps:
    1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
    2. Expand Network adapters.
    3. Right-click on your network adapter and select Update driver.
    4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
    5. If Windows doesn’t find a new driver, visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest driver.

8. Reset TCP/IP

Resetting TCP/IP can resolve network configuration issues that might be preventing RDP connections.

  • Steps:
    1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
    2. Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
      • netsh winsock reset
      • netsh int ip reset
    3. Restart your computer.

9. Check for Conflicting Software

Certain software, especially VPNs or security software, can interfere with RDP. Temporarily disable such software to see if it resolves the issue.

10. Check Event Viewer

The Event Viewer can provide clues about RDP connection failures.

  • Steps:
    1. Search for “Event Viewer” in the Start menu.
    2. Navigate to Windows Logs > Application and Windows Logs > System.
    3. Look for errors or warnings related to Remote Desktop Services or TerminalServices-RemoteConnectionManager.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting RDP issues requires a systematic approach. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the problem, enabling you to connect to your remote computer successfully. Remember to double-check the basics and work your way through the more advanced solutions until the issue is resolved.