What is Windows Remote Desktop, and how to fix the issues around it?

Last updated on June 23rd, 2022 at 04:25 am

The term “Remote Desktop” refers to a program or an operating system feature that enables the user to connect with a computer in a different location. They can view the desktop and interact with it as if it is local.

This development has brought plenty of benefits for the people. It facilitates them in the following ways:

• To access a workplace computer when traveling or at home
• To fix a computer problem
• To execute administrative actions
• To demonstrate something, like a software application or a process
• To access a home computer from a different location

The Need for Adequate Knowledge when Using a Remote Desktop

The recent work-from-home culture has compelled many individuals to deploy Windows Remote Desktop. Assuming all system components are functioning at their optimal capacity, accessing a remote server becomes a quick process.

However, if something is not up to par, you may come across various obstacles and have no idea how to fix those. There could be errors like the remote PC does not respond or refuses your login credentials.

Typically, you can ask your IT department to resolve the problems if there is something wrong at your end. However, it would work in your favor if you learn a few things about the issues yourself to take adequate steps when the problems pop up.

Potential Issues and Their Solutions

Following are some of the common issues faced by Remote Desktop users. We have also provided possible steps you can take to snap out of these conditions:

Issue # 1 – Remote Desktop is unable to connect with the Remote Computer

When you establish a Remote Desktop Connection with a remote computer or a Terminal Server that runs Windows Server 2009 R2, you may receive either of the following messages:

• Try connecting again. If the problem continues, contact the owner of the remote computer or your network administrator.
• Remote Desktop Disconnected.

The error message itself does not offer any substantial help. It only asks you to ensure if the remote computer is connected, turned on, and the access is enabled.

Solutions

There are many ways to adapt when you receive errors of remote desktop connection not working. So you must try one after the other until it shoots away. Some steps you can take are:

Check your permissions – You should be a member of the local Remote Desktop Users group to access a computer. This group is typically empty, and the admins have the option to add users to it. Check with the admin and ensure that you are a member of the group.

Try the IP address – You can try connecting with the IP address instead of using the computer name. If the connection happens, then the issue was due to some problem in the DNS. In such a case, you can flush the DNS cache on your computer. You have to open a command prompt and type flushdns. Then, try connecting again using the computer name.

Verify RDP services’ status – This error may also occur when either of the computers does not have RDP services enabled on it. You have to check if the following are working on both computers: Remote Desktop Service (TermService) and Remote Desktop Service UserMode Port Redirector. Turn these on if you have admin privilege or request the admin to start these. You may have to reboot the device after the service turns on.

Issue # 2 – The System does not Support Your Credentials

When the system refuses to accept your credentials, it indicates that the connection is working, but your account is a problem. You can follow the solutions provided below to resolve these troubles.

Solutions

Reverting Username – The error message sometimes appears when the user you are trying to connect with does not exist on the Remote Desktop Server. This often happens when you have installed a fresh copy of Windows or changed your user name. You must revert to the username you had before to isolate this problem.

Verify your Account – It is vital to ensure that your account has admin privileges and access abilities. IT staff can help you with the Remote Desktop option in the settings or Remote settings option in the Control Panel.

Edit Registry – In some situations, a bunch of changes in the registry might resolve the problems. You have to modify configurations in the registry. To do that:

• Press “Windows” + “R” to open the registry
• Type “Regedit” and press “Enter.”
• Click on the “LsaCompatabilityLevel” button
• Double click on the “REG_DWORD” button and change its value to “1.”
• Check to see if the issue persists

Run Network Troubleshooter – This is one of the proven ways to catch all the connection and accessibility problems. You have to:

• Go to Settings
• Click “Update & Security”
• Next, click “Troubleshoot.”
• Scroll down the list and try some troubleshooters related to network access. It could be the “Network Adapter” or “Internet Connections.”

Erase the saved RDP credentials – If you have credentials already stored in your computer, one method to resolve these is to start fresh. Open RDP and ensure that the PC is listed within the Computer field. You will find a link to delete credentials. Answer “Yes” and enter credentials again.

Parting Notes

If you come across any other problems or can’t resolve the ones listed above, despite following the protocols, then you must team up with the IT department. They will help to narrow down the issue and resolve it using their deep technical knowledge.

However, we hope that our blog helped to enrich your information to some extent. Feel free to tell us the problems you came across and how you managed to snap out of those!