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How to Fix Remote Desktop Connection Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Remote Desktop Connection is a valuable feature in Windows 11 that lets you access your computer from another device. However, sometimes you might face issues where the connection just won’t work. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on remote access for work or personal use.

Fortunately, many common problems have simple fixes. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow these steps. We will guide you through easy and detailed solutions to get your Remote Desktop Connection back up and running.

Each step is explained clearly, so you understand why it’s important. We’ll start with basic checks and move to more advanced troubleshooting if needed.

By the end of this guide, you should be able to fix most connection problems on your own.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Ensure Remote Desktop is enabled: Windows 11 disables Remote Desktop by default for security reasons.
  • Check your internet connection: A stable internet connection is essential for remote access.
  • Confirm the target PC is turned on and awake: It needs to be powered on and not in sleep mode to accept connections.
  • Verify firewall settings: Windows Firewall or other security software might block Remote Desktop.
  • Know the correct IP address or computer name: You need this to connect properly.

Step 1: Enable Remote Desktop on Windows 11

Before you can connect, you must make sure that Remote Desktop is enabled on the PC you want to access.

  1. Click the Start button and open Settings.
  2. Go to System > Remote Desktop.
  3. Toggle the switch to On under Remote Desktop.
  4. A confirmation window may appear; click Confirm.
  5. Make a note of the PC name listed under PC name.

Why this matters: If Remote Desktop isn’t enabled, no external device can connect. This step turns on the feature.

Step 2: Check Network and Firewall Settings

Network settings and firewalls often block Remote Desktop connections. Let’s verify these settings.

Verify Network Profile

  1. Open Settings and go to Network & Internet.
  2. Click on Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on your connection.
  3. Click the connected network name.
  4. Ensure the network profile is set to Private, not Public.

Why this matters: Remote Desktop only works on private networks by default for security reasons.

Allow Remote Desktop through Windows Firewall

  1. Open the Start menu and search for Windows Defender Firewall.
  2. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
  3. Scroll down and find Remote Desktop.
  4. Make sure both Private and Public checkboxes are ticked.
  5. If they are not checked, click Change settings and enable them.
  6. Click OK to save changes.

Why this matters: The firewall controls which apps can communicate over the network. Allowing Remote Desktop access is essential.

Step 3: Verify User Permissions

Only authorized users can connect using Remote Desktop. Let’s make sure your user account has permission.

  1. Go to Settings > System > Remote Desktop.
  2. Click on User Accounts or Select users that can remotely access this PC.
  3. If your account is not listed, click Add.
  4. Enter your user name and click OK.

Why this matters: Without permission, Remote Desktop will refuse your login attempts.

Step 4: Use the Correct IP Address or PC Name

To connect remotely, you need the right address or name for the PC.

  1. On the PC you want to access, press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
  2. Type ipconfig and press Enter.
  3. Look for the IPv4 Address under your active network adapter.
  4. Use this IP address or the PC name noted earlier when connecting from the remote device.

Why this matters: Connecting with incorrect details will cause the connection to fail.

Step 5: Restart Remote Desktop Services

If Remote Desktop still doesn’t work, restarting the related services can help.

  1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. In the Services window, scroll down and find Remote Desktop Services.
  3. Right-click it and select Restart.
  4. Also, restart Remote Desktop Services UserMode Port Redirector if available.

Why this matters: Restarting services can clear temporary glitches affecting connectivity.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

If you are still having trouble, consider the following:

  • Use Network Level Authentication (NLA): This provides an extra security layer. Ensure both PCs support it and it’s enabled in Remote Desktop settings.
  • Check Router Port Forwarding: If connecting over the internet, make sure port 3389 is forwarded to your PC’s IP address.
  • Try Remote Desktop App: Microsoft offers an official Remote Desktop app from the Microsoft Store which sometimes works better than the built-in client.
  • Disable third-party firewall or antivirus temporarily: Sometimes security software blocks Remote Desktop connections.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Remote Desktop say “Remote Desktop can’t connect to the remote computer”?

This usually means the PC is unreachable. Check if the PC is turned on, connected to the network, and Remote Desktop is enabled. Also, confirm firewall settings and correct IP address.

Can I use Remote Desktop over the internet?

Yes, but you need to configure your router to forward port 3389 to your PC, and it’s safer to use a VPN to protect your connection.

How do I find my PC name for Remote Desktop?

Go to Settings > System > About. Your PC name is listed under Device name.

Why am I getting a black screen after connecting?

This can be caused by display driver issues or a slow connection. Try restarting the remote PC, updating display drivers, or lowering session resolution.

Is Remote Desktop free on Windows 11?

Yes, Remote Desktop is included with Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise editions. It is not available on Windows 11 Home as a host (remote PC), but you can connect from Home edition to other PCs.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix your Remote Desktop issue, consider the following final options:

  • Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the Network troubleshooter.
  • Check for Windows Updates: Sometimes updates fix bugs affecting Remote Desktop.
  • Reset Remote Desktop settings: You can disable and re-enable Remote Desktop to reset configurations.
  • Consult Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support page for Remote Desktop at Microsoft Remote Desktop FAQ.

Conclusion

Remote Desktop Connection issues on Windows 11 are often caused by simple misconfigurations or network problems. By enabling Remote Desktop, checking network profiles and firewall settings, verifying user permissions, and using the correct IP address, most problems can be solved quickly.

More advanced options like port forwarding and service restarts provide additional fixes when needed. Remember, patience and following each step carefully will help you restore Remote Desktop functionality.

With these solutions, you should be able to enjoy secure and reliable remote access to your Windows 11 PC without hassle.

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