The Remote Desktop feature on Windows 11 allows the user to access and control a remote computer or virtual machine from their local system. However, sometimes you may experience problems connect Remote computer on Windows 11. Users report the remote desktop connection not working after the Windows 11 update. This article explores the common reason why Windows 11 remote desktop not working and provides troubleshooting steps to help connect the Remote computer again.
Remote Desktop Not Working On Windows 11
There are plenty of reasons Windows 11 fails to connect to a remote desktop. It may be a firewall or security software blocking the RDP connection, or the Remote Desktop feature may not be enabled on either the remote computer or the local system – the list goes on.
- Misconfigured settings in the Remote Desktop application or in the system settings can prevent it from working properly.
- Problems with the network connection, such as poor Wi-Fi signal or firewall restrictions, can hinder Remote Desktop functionality.
- Firewalls or security software may block the necessary ports or protocols required for Remote Desktop to function.
- If User Account Control (UAC) settings are too restrictive, it can prevent the Remote Desktop from establishing a connection.
- If the ports used by Remote Desktop (usually 3389) are blocked by a router or firewall, it will prevent connections.
- Sometimes, issues with the Remote Desktop Services themselves can cause failures.
Checking firewall permissions for the Remote Desktop app and Restarting certain RDP services solve the Remote Desktop problem in Windows 10. Before Start make a note, the Remote Desktop feature is not available for Windows 11 Home edition.
Ensure Remote Desktop is Enabled
The first thing you need to check and verify, the Remote desktop feature is enabled on both the remote computer and the local system.
To enable Remote desktop on Windows 11
- Press the Windows key + I to open the settings app,
- Go to System then click Remote Desktop on the right pane
- Now toggle the switch for Remote Desktop forward to enable it.
- Select the Confirm option on the dialog box that opens.
To enable Remote desktop on Windows 10
- Press the Windows key + X and select settings
- Go to the system then Remote Desktop and toggle on the switch next to Enable Remote Desktop.
Restart Remote Desktop service
The Remote Desktop service must be enabled and running on Windows to establish a remote connection on Windows 11. It provides the infrastructure and functionality for remote desktop sessions, enabling users to access and control a remote system’s desktop environment from a local computer. If for some reason this service not started or is stuck running you might experience problem connect Remote computer. Let’s check and restart the remote desktop service.
- Press Windows key + R, type services.msc and click ok
- scroll down to locate remote desktop service, right-click on it select restart.
- If the service not running, right-click on it and select properties, Here select startup type Automatic from the drop-down menu.
- Click start next to service status, now select apply and ok to save changes.
Check Firewall and Network Settings
The next thing you need to check Firewall settings or network configurations could be blocking Remote Desktop Connection on Windows 11. Here is how to Allow RDP through Windows Defender Firewall.
- Go to the Start menu, search for “Windows Security,” and open the app.
- In Windows Security, click on “Firewall & network protection.” then Allow an app through Firewall.
- Click the Change settings button, Check the app to allow it through the Windows 11 firewall.
Ensure that both the local and remote systems have the appropriate firewall rules to allow Remote Desktop traffic. If necessary, add an exception or create a rule to permit Remote Desktop connections.
Additionally, if you have a third-party firewall or security software installed, you may need to adjust its settings to allow Remote Desktop traffic.
Turn on Network Discovery
Sometimes Enabling Network Discovery can be helpful in resolving Remote Desktop Connection issues, especially when you’re trying to connect to a remote computer on your local network.
- Press the Windows key + R, type control panel and click ok
- Click on “Network and Internet”, Select Network and Sharing Centre, then click on “Change Advanced sharing settings”.
- Under the “Private” network profile section, Choose “Turn on network discovery” and then click on Save changes.
Verify Remote Desktop Port Forwarding
If you are connecting to a remote computer behind a router or firewall, you may need to configure port forwarding. Here’s how:
- Access your router’s settings by typing its IP address into a web browser.
- Locate the port forwarding settings and forward TCP port 3389 (default Remote Desktop port) to the internal IP address of the remote computer.
- Save the changes and restart the router if necessary.
Remote Desktop not working over VPN
If the Remote Desktop is not working over a VPN (Virtual Private Network), the first thing you need to check and Ensure that the VPN is configured to allow Remote Desktop connections.
If your VPN client supports split tunneling, consider enabling it. Verify that the necessary firewall rules and network configurations are in place to allow Remote Desktop traffic over the VPN.
Instead of using the computer name to connect via Remote Desktop, try using the IP address of the remote computer. This bypasses any potential DNS-related issues and directly connects to the desired machine.
Third-party security software or applications can sometimes interfere with Remote Desktop. Temporarily disable or configure them to allow Remote Desktop connections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is Remote Desktop not working on my Windows 11 computer?
- There could be several reasons, including incorrect settings, network issues, firewall restrictions, or user permissions.
Why am I getting an error message when trying to connect via Remote Desktop?
- Error messages can indicate various issues. Common ones include network problems, incorrect login credentials, or Remote Desktop not being enabled on the target computer.
How can I troubleshoot network issues affecting Remote Desktop?
- Check your network connection, ensure both devices are on the same network, and verify that there are no router or firewall restrictions blocking Remote Desktop traffic.
Are there specific security considerations for Remote Desktop on Windows 11?
- Yes, it’s important to use strong, unique passwords, enable Network Level Authentication (NLA), and consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for added security when using Remote Desktop.
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