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How to Fix “Enumerating User Sessions Generate Filter Pools Failed” Error on Windows 11

If you encounter the error message “Enumerating User Sessions Generate Filter Pools Failed” on Windows 11, it can be confusing and frustrating. This error typically relates to problems with user session management or system permissions. Fortunately, fixing it is usually straightforward with some basic troubleshooting.

This article will guide you through simple methods to resolve this error step-by-step. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along. Each instruction is explained clearly and in detail.

By the end, you’ll understand why this error occurs and how to fix it effectively. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the solutions.

Make sure to follow the steps in order, from the easiest to the more advanced, for the best results.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before trying any fixes, please ensure the following:

  • Your Windows 11 is fully updated. Sometimes, system updates fix known bugs automatically.
  • You have administrator access on your PC. Fixes often require making system-level changes.
  • Restart your computer once before proceeding, as a simple reboot can clear temporary glitches.
  • Close all other applications to avoid conflicts during troubleshooting.

Step 1: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

The first thing to try is checking for corrupted system files. Windows has a built-in tool called System File Checker (SFC) that scans and repairs damaged files. This can fix errors related to user sessions.

Here’s how to run it:

  1. Press Windows + S to open the search box, then type cmd.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
  3. In the black command window, type the following command and press Enter:
    sfc /scannow
  4. Wait patiently. The scan can take several minutes to complete.
  5. Once finished, if it finds and fixes issues, restart your computer and check if the error persists.

Why this helps: Corrupted system files can cause unexpected errors. The SFC tool repairs these files, which may resolve the session enumeration problem.

Step 2: Check User Account Permissions

This error may occur if your user account doesn’t have the proper permissions to enumerate sessions. Ensuring your account is an administrator can help.

To verify and update your account type:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Accounts > Your info.
  3. Look under your name. It should say Administrator. If it says Standard user, you might need to switch accounts or request admin access.

If you have another admin account, log in with it and change your account type:

  1. Open Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
  2. Select your user account, then click Change account type.
  3. Set it to Administrator and click OK.
  4. Log out and log back into your account.

Why this helps: Some system functions require administrative privileges. Without them, Windows may block session enumeration.

Step 3: Restart the Remote Desktop Services

The error might be linked to the Remote Desktop Services, which manage user sessions. Restarting this service can refresh its state and fix errors.

Follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the Services window, scroll down to find Remote Desktop Services.
  4. Right-click it and select Restart.
  5. Also, check that its startup type is set to Automatic. To do this, right-click, choose Properties, and set Startup type to Automatic if it’s not already.
  6. Click OK and close the window.
  7. Restart your PC and see if the error remains.

Why this helps: If Remote Desktop Services are stuck or misconfigured, session enumeration can fail. Restarting resets the service.

Step 4: Modify Group Policy Settings

If the error continues, adjusting group policy settings related to user sessions might help. This step is for users comfortable with system configuration.

To modify group policy:

  1. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
  2. Navigate to:
    Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Connections
  3. Look for the setting named Restrict Remote Desktop Services users to a single Remote Desktop Services session.
  4. Double-click it and set it to Disabled or Not configured.
  5. Click Apply and then OK.
  6. Close the editor and restart your computer.

Why this helps: Some group policy settings can restrict session enumeration or cause conflicts with filtering pools.

Alternative Method: Use PowerShell to Reset Sessions

If you are comfortable with command-line tools, PowerShell offers commands to reset user sessions that might be stuck and causing the error.

Try this:

  1. Open PowerShell as an administrator: Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    query session
  3. This lists all active sessions. Note the Session ID of any session you want to reset.
  4. To reset a session, run:
    reset session <SessionID>
    Replace <SessionID> with the actual number.
  5. For example:
    reset session 2
  6. After resetting sessions, check if the error is resolved.

Why this helps: Sometimes, lingering or corrupted sessions cause filtering issues. Resetting them clears the problem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the “Enumerating User Sessions Generate Filter Pools Failed” error?

This error usually results from corrupted system files, insufficient user permissions, stuck Remote Desktop Services, or conflicting group policies affecting session management.

Is this error harmful to my system?

Generally, it does not damage your computer but prevents proper enumeration of user sessions, which can affect remote connections or session management.

Can a Windows update fix this error?

Yes, sometimes Microsoft releases fixes in updates that resolve such problems. Keeping your system updated is always recommended.

Do I need to be an administrator to fix this error?

Yes, most fixes require administrator privileges because they involve system-level changes.

Will resetting sessions cause me to lose data?

Resetting user sessions will disconnect users, which may cause unsaved work to be lost. Use this carefully, especially on multi-user systems.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the steps above and the error still appears, consider these last resort options:

  • Perform a system restore: Roll back your Windows 11 to a point before the error began.
  • Create a new user account: Sometimes, user profiles get corrupted. A new account might bypass the issue.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support for personalized assistance.
  • Reinstall Windows 11: As a final option, clean installing Windows can fix deep system issues.

Conclusion

The “Enumerating User Sessions Generate Filter Pools Failed” error on Windows 11 can usually be resolved by checking system files, verifying user permissions, restarting related services, and adjusting group policies. Starting with simple fixes like running the SFC scan or restarting services often solves the issue quickly.

Remember to always keep your system updated and ensure you have administrative rights to perform these tasks. If needed, more advanced methods like PowerShell commands or group policy edits can help. When all else fails, system restore or contacting official support are reliable next steps.

With this guide, you should be able to troubleshoot and fix this error efficiently, restoring smooth user session management on your Windows 11 PC.

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