Share this article
This article is translated in
Improve this guide
Remote Desktop Connection is Not Working [9 Fixes]
Weak internet connection can cause Remote Desktop not to work
8 min. read
Updated onDecember 11, 2023
updated onDecember 11, 2023
Share this article
This article is translated in
Improve this guide
Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more
Key notes
Remote Desktop is a handy Windows 10 feature that allows us to control our computer from another device.
Of course, toenable the Remote Desktopfeature, you need an active internet connection. So, if your computer is not correctly connected to the internet, you won’t be able to use thisfeature.
However, some other factors could cause the feature to stop working, and we will talk about these issues and solutions for them in this article.
If RDP is disabled, you can enable it to run from here.
What can I do if the remote desktop is not working?
1. Check your internet connection
As mentioned earlier, the Internet is required forRemote Desktopto connect with another device. So, check if everything is okay with your internet connection.
If you determine that you have some problems connecting to the internet, check out our articles about Internet problems andLimited internet connectioninWindows 10, and you might find the solution.
2. Check if remote connections are allowed
Just like you need to allowRemote Desktopthrough the Firewall, you also need to enable remote connections on your computer if you’re using thisfeaturefor the first time.
Remote connections are now enabled, and you should try to connect again. We also noticed another possible issue that could prevent usingRemote Desktop.
If the computer you want to connect to remotely is in the Sleep or Hibernate mode, the connection won’t be possible, so check if the computer is ‘awake,’ and then try to connect again.
3. Remove your credentials from Remote Desktop
According to users, sometimesRemote Desktopwon’t connect due to problems with your credentials. However, you can fix that issue simply by removing the saved credentials.
After deleting your credentials, check if the problem persists. Many users reported that this solution fixed the problem, so try it out.
4. Turn off custom scaling
IfRemote Desktopdoesn’t connect, the problem might be related to custom scaling. Many users use custom scaling on larger monitors, but sometimes this feature can cause issues withRemote Desktop.
Once you sign back in, the scaling should be set to default, and all problems withRemote Desktopwill be resolved. Many users reported that this solution worked for them, so we strongly recommend you try it out.
5. Change Firewall Settings
Windows Firewall is also one of the most common causes ofRemote Desktopproblems. If Firewall blocks the Remote Desktop, you won’t be able to connect it with another device.
Now try to connect your computers viaRemote Desktop, and it should work.
Remote Desktop is not enabled in Firewall by default, so if you’re runningRemote Desktopfor the first time, allowing it through Windows Firewall is a must.
In addition to your firewall, it’s essential to check if your antivirus isn’t blocking theRemote Desktopfeature.
Sometimes antivirus can interfere with your system and prevent thisfeaturefrom working correctly. Sometimes, you might have to uninstall your antivirus to fix this issue.
If you’re looking for a new antivirus compatible withRemote Desktop, we suggest you consider changing yourantivirus softwareto ESET NOD32. This software works great with Windows 10 and protects you without interfering with other processes and apps.
6. Make changes to your registry
According to users, you might be able to fix this problem by making one small change to your registry.
After making these changes, check if the problem persists. This might be a slightly advanced solution, but many users reported that it worked for them, so you might want to try it out.
7. Add the IP address and server name to the hosts file
Several users reported that they could not useRemote Desktopdue to their host’s file.
According to them, you need to manually add the IP address and server name to the host’s file on your PC to fix the issue.
To do that, navigate to This directory and edit the hosts file withNotepad:C:WindowsSystem32Driversetc
Remember that the host’s file is a system file, so if you want to modify it, you’ll need administrative privileges.
For more information on how to modify your host’s file and gain administrative privileges, we strongly recommend checking Access denied when editing the host’s file article.
Once you change your host’s file, the issue withRemote Desktopshould be resolved.
8. Check if the 3389 port is enabled
IfRemote Desktopwon’t connect, the problem might be your firewall. Your firewall can block specific ports to protect your PC, but sometimes your firewall can block particular ports by mistake.
For example, port3389is used byRemote Desktop, and if your firewall is blocking this port, you won’t be able to use thisfeatureat all.
If this port is enabled, but the issue still appears, try disabling and enabling your firewall. Sometimes a quick firewall reset can fix the problem, so you might want to try that.
9. Change your connection from Public to Private
To protect your PC, remote connections are disabled if you use a public connection. After doing that, the problem with the Remote Desktop should be resolved entirely.
Also, if none of the solutions worked, you can useMikogoto solve the connectivity problems. With this remote desktop software, you get complete security and control of your PC.
How do I force a remote desktop connection?
With this, you can force a Remote Desktop connection on Windows.
Remote Desktop not working over VPN
Remote desktop not connecting through VPN cases are more frequent than you can imagine.
While the potential culprits can be diverse, ranging from connectivity issues (ports, network adapters, and so on) to communication and protocols, the problem is likely caused by an incorrect setup.
Whether the VPN disconnects when Remote Desktop is activated or the Remote Desktop fails with the VPN connected, getting the two of them to collaborate harmoniously is essential.
Here are some quick tips to consider:
If you want to find outhow to set up a VPN with Remote Desktop Connectionon Windows 10/11, we got your back. So don’t be shy to explore the topic and follow the presented instructions.
That’s about it. We hope at least some of these solutions helped you with connection problems withRemote DesktopinWindows 10.
If you have any comments or questions, reach out to the comment section below, and we’ll try to assist you further.
More about the topics:Remote Desktop Connection
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
User forum
5 messages
Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes
Comment*
Name*
Email*
Commenting as.Not you?
Save information for future comments
Comment
Δ
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
