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

Remote Desktop is a useful feature in Windows 11 that lets you access your computer from another device. Sometimes, you might run into connection issues that prevent Remote Desktop from working properly. This can be frustrating, especially when you need quick access to your files or programs.

Fortunately, many common connection problems have straightforward fixes. By following a few simple steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself without needing advanced technical knowledge.

This guide will walk you through easy-to-understand solutions to get Remote Desktop working again on your Windows 11 PC. Each step includes explanations so you know why the fix matters.

Whether you’re a beginner or just want a refresher, these instructions are designed to help you troubleshoot and connect smoothly.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before diving into troubleshooting, make sure of the following to avoid unnecessary steps:

  • Remote Desktop is enabled: Your Windows 11 PC must have Remote Desktop turned on to accept connections.
  • Correct IP address or hostname: You need the right address of the PC you want to connect to.
  • Devices are on the same network (for local connections): Both devices should be connected to the same Wi-Fi or LAN if you’re not using VPN or port forwarding.
  • Firewall settings allow Remote Desktop: Firewalls can block the connection if not configured properly.

Step 1: Verify Remote Desktop is Enabled

The first and most important step is to ensure that Remote Desktop is turned on your Windows 11 PC. If it’s off, your computer won’t accept any incoming remote connections.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to System and then click on Remote Desktop.
  3. Toggle the switch to On under “Remote Desktop”.
  4. You might see a prompt about network level authentication (NLA). Leave it enabled for better security.
  5. Note the PC name shown on this page; you will need it to connect from another device.

Enabling Remote Desktop allows your PC to listen for connection requests. Without this, no remote access is possible.

Step 2: Check Network Connectivity

Remote Desktop requires that both your local and remote PC can communicate over the network. If the network is down or unreachable, the connection will fail.

  1. Make sure both devices are connected to the internet or the same local network.
  2. On your remote PC, open Command Prompt by typing cmd in the Start menu search.
  3. Type ping [PC name or IP address] and press Enter. For example: ping DESKTOP-12345
  4. If you receive replies, the network connection is good. If you get timeouts or errors, check your network settings.

Testing the network ensures your devices can “see” each other, which is essential for Remote Desktop to work.

Step 3: Configure Windows Firewall to Allow Remote Desktop

Windows Firewall might block Remote Desktop connections by default. You need to allow it through the firewall rules.

  1. Press Windows + R, type control firewall.cpl, and press Enter to open Windows Defender Firewall.
  2. Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall on the left pane.
  3. Find Remote Desktop in the list and ensure both Private and Public checkboxes are ticked.
  4. If it’s not listed, click Allow another app… and add mstsc.exe, which is the Remote Desktop client.
  5. Click OK to save changes.

Allowing Remote Desktop through the firewall ensures the connection requests are not blocked by your PC’s security software.

Step 4: Verify Remote Desktop Port is Open (Advanced)

By default, Remote Desktop uses port 3389 for connections. If this port is blocked by routers or firewalls, connectivity will fail.

To check if port 3389 is open:

  1. Open Command Prompt and run:
netstat -an | find "3389"

If you see the port listed as listening, it means your PC is ready to accept Remote Desktop connections.

If it’s not open, you may need to configure your router or firewall to forward or allow this port. This is more common when connecting over the internet rather than a local network.

Step 5: Use the Correct Credentials

Remote Desktop requires you to enter a valid username and password for the PC you are connecting to. Using incorrect credentials will prevent login.

  • Make sure you use the full username, especially if your PC is part of a domain. For example: DOMAINUsername.
  • Ensure the password is correct and that the user account has permission to access Remote Desktop.
  • On the remote PC, you can check allowed users by clicking Advanced settings in the Remote Desktop settings page and reviewing the list under Select users that can remotely access this PC.

Step 6: Restart Remote Desktop Services

Sometimes, the Remote Desktop service might stop working properly. Restarting it can fix connection issues.

  1. Press Windows + 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. Close the Services window and try connecting again.

Restarting the service refreshes its state and may solve temporary glitches blocking connections.

Alternative Method: Use Remote Desktop Web Client

If the desktop app is not working, Windows 11 also supports Remote Desktop via a web browser.

  • Visit remotedesktop.microsoft.com.
  • Sign in with your Microsoft account and add your PC.
  • Try connecting to your PC through the browser interface.

This method can bypass some local app or firewall issues and is useful if you have problems with the Remote Desktop app.

FAQs

Why can’t I connect even though Remote Desktop is enabled?

Check your network connection, firewall settings, and make sure you have the correct username and password. Also, verify that the PC is turned on and not asleep.

Can I use Remote Desktop over the internet?

Yes, but you need to configure port forwarding on your router or use a VPN. Direct internet connections without security are risky and not recommended.

What if I get an error about Network Level Authentication?

This means your client or server does not support NLA. You can disable NLA on the remote PC in the Remote Desktop settings, but this reduces security.

Is Remote Desktop available on all Windows 11 editions?

Remote Desktop server functionality is only available in Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions. Windows 11 Home can only act as a client.

How do I find my PC’s IP address?

Open Command Prompt and type ipconfig. Look for the IPv4 address under your active network adapter.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still cannot connect, consider the following:

  • Update Windows 11: Make sure your system is up to date with the latest patches and fixes.
  • Check for third-party firewall or antivirus software: These can sometimes block Remote Desktop connections. Temporarily disable them to test.
  • Consult Microsoft’s official Remote Desktop troubleshooting guide: Visit Microsoft Support for detailed help.
  • Consider alternative remote access tools: Tools like TeamViewer or AnyDesk can be used if Remote Desktop is not working.

Conclusion

Remote Desktop is a powerful tool when it works properly, but connection issues can happen for many reasons. By starting with the basics—enabling Remote Desktop, verifying network connectivity, and checking firewall settings—you can solve most problems quickly.

For more advanced issues, checking ports and services or using alternative methods may be necessary. Always ensure your credentials and permissions are correct to avoid login failures.

Following these step-by-step instructions will help you restore Remote Desktop functionality on Windows 11 and keep you connected to your PC from anywhere.

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