Remote Desktop Not Working on Windows 11: Troubleshooting Guide

Remote Desktop allows you to control a computer remotely, which is incredibly useful for both personal and professional purposes. However, encountering issues where Remote Desktop isn’t working on Windows 11 can be frustrating. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to troubleshooting and resolving these problems.

1. Basic Checks and Initial Troubleshooting

Before diving into more complex solutions, start with these basic checks:

  • Network Connectivity: Ensure both computers are connected to the same network or have a stable internet connection. Remote Desktop needs network access to function.
  • Firewall Settings: Windows Firewall (or any third-party firewall) might be blocking Remote Desktop. We’ll address this in detail later.
  • Remote Desktop Enabled: Verify that Remote Desktop is enabled on the host computer (the one you’re trying to connect to).
  • Computer Names/IP Addresses: Double-check that you’re using the correct computer name or IP address of the host machine.
  • User Account Permissions: The user account you’re using to connect must have Remote Desktop access.
  • Restart Computers: A simple restart of both computers can often resolve temporary glitches.

2. Enabling Remote Desktop on the Host Computer

If Remote Desktop isn’t enabled, you won’t be able to connect.

Steps:

  1. Open Settings: Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
  2. System: Click on “System”.
  3. Remote Desktop: Scroll down and click on “Remote Desktop”.
  4. Enable Remote Desktop: Toggle the “Remote Desktop” switch to the “On” position.
  5. Confirmation: You may be prompted to confirm the change. Click “Confirm”.
  6. User Accounts: Verify the user account you will be using to connect is listed under “Remote desktop users”. If not, add the user account by clicking on the “Add user” button. You may need administrator privileges to complete this step.

3. Firewall Configuration

Windows Firewall can block Remote Desktop connections. Here’s how to configure it:

Steps:

  1. Search for Firewall: Type “Windows Defender Firewall” in the search bar and open it.
  2. Allow an App: Click on “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall”.
  3. Change Settings: Click the “Change settings” button (you’ll need administrator privileges).
  4. Remote Desktop: Locate “Remote Desktop” in the list and ensure that both “Private” and “Public” checkboxes are checked. If you only use Remote Desktop on a private network, you can only check the “Private” box.
  5. Apply: Click “OK” to save the changes.

4. Network Level Authentication (NLA) Issues

NLA adds a layer of security to Remote Desktop. However, it can sometimes cause connection problems.

Troubleshooting:

  1. Disable NLA (Less Secure): On the host computer, go to System Properties (search for “View advanced system settings”).
  2. Remote Tab: Click the “Remote” tab.
  3. Uncheck the Box: Uncheck the box that says “Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication (recommended)”.
  4. Apply: Click “Apply” and then “OK”.

Note: Disabling NLA makes your Remote Desktop connection less secure. Only do this if you are on a trusted network and understand the risks. Consider re-enabling it once you’ve resolved the initial connection issue.

5. Group Policy Settings (For Pro/Enterprise Editions)

If you’re using Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, Group Policy settings might be interfering with Remote Desktop.

Steps:

  1. Open Group Policy Editor: Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate: Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Connections.
  3. Allow Users to Connect Remotely: Ensure the “Allow users to connect remotely using Remote Desktop Services” policy is set to “Enabled”. If it’s set to “Not Configured” or “Disabled”, Remote Desktop connections might be blocked.
  4. Limit Number of Connections: Check the “Limit number of connections” policy. If it’s enabled and set to a low number (e.g., 0 or 1), it might prevent new connections. Set it to a higher number or “Not Configured”.

6. Check the Remote Desktop Services

Remote Desktop Services has to be running for you to establish a connection.

Steps

  1. Open Services: Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Locate Remote Desktop Services: Find “Remote Desktop Services” and “Remote Desktop Services UserMode Port Redirector” in the list.
  3. Verify Status: Ensure their status is “Running”. If not, right-click on each service and select “Start”.
  4. Startup Type: Right-click on each service, select “Properties”, and ensure the “Startup type” is set to “Automatic”.

7. IP Address Conflicts

An IP address conflict can prevent Remote Desktop from working correctly.

Troubleshooting:

  • Static IP: Consider assigning static IP addresses to both computers to avoid conflicts.
  • DHCP Lease: Release and renew the IP address on both computers. Open Command Prompt as administrator and run the following commands:
    • ipconfig /release
    • ipconfig /renew

8. Update Network Adapter Drivers

Outdated or corrupted network adapter drivers can cause network connectivity issues, affecting Remote Desktop.

Steps:

  1. Open Device Manager: Search for “Device Manager” in the search bar and open it.
  2. Network Adapters: Expand “Network adapters”.
  3. Update Driver: Right-click on your network adapter and select “Update driver”.
  4. Search Automatically: Choose “Search automatically for drivers”. Windows will try to find the latest driver online. Alternatively, you can download the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website and install it manually.

9. Third-Party Software Interference

Certain third-party software, especially VPNs or security software, can interfere with Remote Desktop.

Troubleshooting:

  • Disable VPN: Temporarily disable any VPN software to see if it’s causing the issue.
  • Firewall/Security Software: Check the settings of your firewall or security software to ensure they’re not blocking Remote Desktop connections. Temporarily disable them as a test (but remember to re-enable them afterward).

10. Event Viewer Logs

The Event Viewer can provide clues about why Remote Desktop isn’t working.

Steps:

  1. Open Event Viewer: Search for “Event Viewer” in the search bar and open it.
  2. Windows Logs: Expand “Windows Logs”.
  3. Application and System: Check the “Application” and “System” logs for any errors or warnings related to Remote Desktop. Look for events with the source “TermService” or “RemoteDesktopServices”.

By systematically working through these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue preventing Remote Desktop from working on your Windows 11 computer.