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How to Fix Remote Desktop Not Resizing Issue on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Remote Desktop is a useful feature in Windows 11 that allows you to access another computer from a distance. Sometimes, when you resize the Remote Desktop window, the screen inside does not adjust properly. This can be frustrating, especially when you want to work on different screen sizes.

This article will guide you through simple steps to fix the Remote Desktop not resizing issue on Windows 11. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along easily.

By the end, you will understand how to ensure your Remote Desktop session adjusts smoothly when you change the window size. Let’s get started with some quick checks.

Following these steps will help you save time and improve your Remote Desktop experience.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Check your Windows version: Make sure both your local and remote computers are running Windows 11 or compatible versions that support modern Remote Desktop features.
  • Network connection: A stable and fast internet connection helps Remote Desktop work without lag or display problems.
  • Remote Desktop Client: Use the official Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the Microsoft Store for the best compatibility.
  • Permissions: Ensure Remote Desktop is enabled on the remote PC and you have permission to connect.

Step 1: Adjust Remote Desktop Display Settings

Sometimes, the display settings in the Remote Desktop client are not configured to resize automatically. Here is how to fix that:

  1. Open the Remote Desktop app on your Windows 11 PC.
  2. Before connecting, click on the pencil icon or Edit button next to your remote PC’s name.
  3. Go to the Display tab.
  4. Make sure to check the option “Use all my monitors for the remote session” if you use multiple screens.
  5. Adjust the Display resolution dropdown to “Full screen” or the resolution that matches your local screen.
  6. Enable “Dynamic resolution update” if available. This option allows the remote screen to resize as you adjust the window size.
  7. Save your settings and connect to the remote PC.

Why this matters: Enabling dynamic resolution ensures that the remote desktop display changes size automatically, matching your window, which fixes the resizing issue in many cases.

Step 2: Update Remote Desktop Client and Windows

Running an outdated Remote Desktop client or operating system can cause display glitches. Follow these steps to keep everything updated:

  1. Open Microsoft Store on your PC.
  2. Search for Microsoft Remote Desktop and check if an update is available.
  3. If yes, click Update and wait for the process to complete.
  4. Next, go to Settings > Windows Update and check for updates.
  5. Install all available updates and restart your computer if needed.

Why update? Updates often fix bugs and improve compatibility, including problems with screen resizing.

Step 3: Modify Group Policy Settings (Advanced)

If the above steps don’t work, you can change some system policies to enable dynamic resizing. This method is for users comfortable with Windows administration.

  1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
  2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Remote Session Environment.
  3. Find the setting called “Use WDDM graphics display driver for Remote Desktop Connections”.
  4. Double-click it and set it to Enabled.
  5. Click Apply and then OK.
  6. Restart your PC to apply the changes.

Why this helps: Enabling WDDM graphics driver support improves graphics performance and allows better resizing of remote sessions on modern hardware.

Step 4: Use Registry Editor to Enable Dynamic Resolution (Advanced)

As a last advanced step, you can update the Windows Registry to ensure dynamic resolution updates are allowed.

  1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to the following key: 
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftTerminal Server Client
  3. Right-click in the right pane and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
  4. Name it UseDynamicResolution.
  5. Double-click the new value and set its data to 1.
  6. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.

Note: Editing the registry can be risky. Always back up your registry before making changes.

Alternative Method: Use the Remote Desktop Web Client

If the desktop app still has issues, consider using the Remote Desktop Web Client through a supported web browser. This version often handles resizing better and does not require app installation.

  • Open your browser and go to your organization’s Remote Desktop Web access URL.
  • Log in with your credentials.
  • Connect to your remote desktop session.
  • Try resizing the browser window to see if the remote session adjusts properly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why won’t my Remote Desktop window resize properly?

This usually happens because dynamic resolution updates are disabled or the Remote Desktop client is outdated. Network issues or graphics driver limitations can also cause this problem.

Can I fix resizing issues without admin rights?

Yes, adjusting display settings in the Remote Desktop client and updating the app usually do not require admin rights. However, changing Group Policy or Registry settings will require administrator access.

Does using multiple monitors affect Remote Desktop resizing?

Yes. Enabling the option to use all monitors in the Remote Desktop settings can improve resizing behavior when working with multiple screens.

Is the Remote Desktop Web Client better for resizing issues?

In some cases, yes. The web client can handle dynamic resizing more smoothly and is a good alternative if the desktop app has problems.

What if my remote PC is running an older version of Windows?

Older Windows versions may have limited support for dynamic resizing. Updating the remote PC’s system or using compatible Remote Desktop clients can help.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and the Remote Desktop still does not resize properly, consider these final options:

  • Reinstall the Remote Desktop app: Uninstall and reinstall the Microsoft Remote Desktop app to fix any corrupted files.
  • Check remote PC display drivers: Update the graphics drivers on the remote machine to ensure compatibility.
  • Contact IT support: If you are in a corporate environment, your IT department may have specific configurations or restrictions.
  • Visit official Microsoft support: Microsoft’s official documentation and support forums provide updated solutions and help for complex issues.
    Microsoft Remote Desktop Services

Conclusion

Fixing the Remote Desktop not resizing issue in Windows 11 is usually straightforward when you follow the correct steps. Start by adjusting display settings and updating your software, then move to advanced options if needed.

Understanding why dynamic resolution is important helps you appreciate the fixes and avoid frustration in the future. Remember to always keep your system and apps updated for the best performance.

If resizing issues persist, the alternative web client or official support channels are great options to explore. With these tips, you can enjoy a smooth and flexible Remote Desktop experience on Windows 11.

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