RDP Not Working on Windows 10: Troubleshooting Guide

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a valuable tool built into Windows that allows you to connect to and control your computer from another device remotely. However, users sometimes encounter issues where RDP stops working on Windows 10. This comprehensive guide provides troubleshooting steps to resolve RDP connection problems.

Common Causes of RDP Issues

Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to understand the common reasons why RDP might fail:

  • RDP is disabled: The Remote Desktop feature might not be enabled on the host computer.
  • Firewall blocking: Windows Firewall or a third-party firewall could be blocking RDP connections.
  • Incorrect RDP settings: Incorrect configuration of RDP settings can prevent successful connections.
  • Network connectivity problems: Issues with your network connection can disrupt RDP.
  • Incorrect IP address or hostname: Using the wrong IP address or hostname to connect.
  • Group Policy settings: Group Policy settings configured by an administrator may prevent RDP access.
  • Antivirus software: Antivirus can sometimes interfere with network processes and block RDP.

Troubleshooting Steps

Follow these steps to diagnose and fix your RDP problems:

1. Verify RDP is Enabled

  • Steps:
    1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
    2. Click on System and select Remote Desktop.
    3. Ensure the Enable Remote Desktop slider is turned On.
    4. If prompted, confirm the changes.
  • Explanation: If Remote Desktop is disabled, you won’t be able to connect to the computer remotely. Enabling this feature is the first and most important step.

2. Check Windows Firewall Settings

  • Steps:
    1. Search for “Windows Defender Firewall” in the Start menu and open it.
    2. Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
    3. Click the Change settings button.
    4. Locate Remote Desktop in the list.
    5. Ensure both Private and Public checkboxes are selected.
    6. Click OK to save the changes.
  • Explanation: Windows Firewall can block RDP connections. Allowing Remote Desktop through the firewall permits remote access.

3. Confirm Network Level Authentication (NLA) Settings

  • Steps:
    1. Search for “Remote Desktop Settings” in the Start menu and open it.
    2. Under Remote Desktop, click on Advanced settings.
    3. Uncheck the box for “Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication (recommended)”.
    4. Click OK.
  • Explanation: NLA adds a layer of security, but it can cause issues with older RDP clients. Disabling it temporarily can help determine if it’s the cause.

4. Check the Remote Desktop Service

  • Steps:
    1. Press Windows key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
    2. Locate the Remote Desktop Services service.
    3. Ensure the Status is Running. If not, right-click and select Start.
    4. Right-click on the service again and select Properties.
    5. In the Startup type dropdown, select Automatic.
    6. Click Apply and OK.
  • Explanation: The Remote Desktop Services must be running for RDP to function. Setting it to Automatic ensures it starts when Windows boots.

5. Verify Group Policy Settings

  • Steps:
    1. Press Windows key + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter (This only works on Windows Pro and Enterprise).
    2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Connections.
    3. Check the status of the following policies:
      • Allow users to connect remotely using Remote Desktop Services: Should be Enabled or Not Configured.
      • Limit maximum number of connections: Ensure it’s not set to 0.
    4. If any policies are preventing RDP, change them accordingly and restart the computer.
  • Explanation: Group Policy settings can override local RDP settings. Ensure no policies are blocking RDP.

6. Check Antivirus Software

  • Steps:
    1. Temporarily disable your antivirus software.
    2. Try connecting via RDP.
    3. If RDP works after disabling the antivirus, add an exception for RDP in your antivirus settings.
  • Explanation: Antivirus software can sometimes block RDP connections. Creating an exception allows RDP to function correctly.

7. Network Connectivity

  • Steps:
    1. Ping the target computer using its IP address from the client computer. Open command prompt and type ping [IP address]. Replace [IP address] with the target computer’s IP.
    2. If the ping fails, there might be network connectivity problems. Check network cables, routers, and internet connection.
  • Explanation: RDP requires a stable network connection. Ensure both computers are on the same network and can communicate with each other.

8. Verify the RDP Port (3389)

  • Steps:
    1. Use PowerShell to test if the RDP port is open. Open PowerShell as administrator and type: Test-NetConnection -ComputerName [IP address] -Port 3389
    2. If the port is not open, ensure the firewall is not blocking port 3389.
  • Explanation: RDP uses port 3389 by default. Ensuring the port is open is crucial for establishing a connection.

9. Update Network Adapter Drivers

  • Steps:
    1. Open Device Manager (search for it in the Start Menu).
    2. Expand “Network adapters”.
    3. Right-click on your network adapter and select “Update driver”.
    4. Choose “Search automatically for drivers”.
  • Explanation: Outdated network drivers can cause connectivity problems. Updating them can resolve these issues.

10. Restart the Computer

  • Steps:
    1. Restart both the client and the host computers.
  • Explanation: A simple restart can resolve many temporary issues and refresh network connections.

Conclusion

Resolving RDP issues on Windows 10 involves systematically checking various settings and components. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can identify and fix the underlying cause of your RDP problems and restore remote access to your computer. Remember to test each step individually to pinpoint the exact solution.