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How to Fix mstsc.exe Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Remote Desktop Connection (mstsc.exe) is a handy tool in Windows 11 that allows you to connect to another computer from your device. Sometimes, it might stop working, causing frustration when you need to access a remote system quickly. Fortunately, fixing mstsc.exe issues is often straightforward.

This guide will walk you through simple and clear steps to get Remote Desktop Connection working again. Each step is explained in detail so even beginners can follow along easily.

By following these steps, you can troubleshoot common problems and restore your ability to connect remotely without hassle. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into repairs.

Understanding the basics behind these fixes will help you avoid similar issues in the future and use Remote Desktop smoothly on Windows 11.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before troubleshooting mstsc.exe, make sure of the following:

  • Check your internet connection: A stable network is essential for Remote Desktop to work properly.
  • Verify Remote Desktop is enabled: On the target PC, Remote Desktop must be turned on in system settings.
  • Confirm Windows version: Remote Desktop clients work best on Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions.
  • Firewall and Antivirus settings: These should allow mstsc.exe or Remote Desktop connections.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, the simplest step fixes many problems. Restarting your computer refreshes system resources and closes stuck programs that might interfere with mstsc.exe.

How to restart:

  1. Click on the Start menu.
  2. Select the Power icon.
  3. Choose “Restart.”

After rebooting, try launching Remote Desktop Connection again.

Step 2: Run mstsc.exe as Administrator

Running mstsc.exe with administrator privileges can resolve permission issues preventing it from functioning properly.

Follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows + S and type mstsc.
  2. Right-click on Remote Desktop Connection in results.
  3. Select Run as administrator.

If this solves the problem, you can set mstsc.exe to always run as administrator by right-clicking the file, going to Properties > Compatibility tab, and checking “Run this program as an administrator.”

Step 3: Check Remote Desktop Settings

Remote Desktop may fail if it’s disabled or misconfigured on the target PC. Verify these settings carefully.

On the remote PC:

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Go to System > Remote Desktop.
  3. Ensure that Remote Desktop is toggled On.
  4. Click Advanced settings and check if Require devices to use Network Level Authentication is enabled. This option improves security but some older clients may not support it.

Adjust these settings as needed and try connecting again.

Step 4: Disable Firewall or Create an Exception

Windows Firewall or third-party security software can block Remote Desktop traffic. Temporarily disabling the firewall helps identify if it’s the cause.

To disable Windows Firewall temporarily:

  1. Press Windows + S, type Windows Defender Firewall, and open it.
  2. Click on Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off from the left menu.
  3. Select Turn off Windows Defender Firewall for both private and public networks.
  4. Click OK and test Remote Desktop.

If this fixes the problem, create an exception for Remote Desktop instead of leaving the firewall off:

  1. In Windows Defender Firewall, click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
  2. Find and check Remote Desktop for both private and public networks.
  3. Save changes and re-enable the firewall.

Step 5: Reset Remote Desktop Configuration

Sometimes, corrupted configuration files prevent mstsc.exe from working. Resetting the settings can help.

To reset Remote Desktop settings:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftTerminal Server Client
  4. Right-click on the Terminal Server Client folder and select Delete.
  5. Close Registry Editor and restart your PC.

This action deletes old connection history and settings, allowing mstsc.exe to create fresh configuration files.

Step 6: Update Windows 11 and Remote Desktop Client

Outdated system files or bugs can cause Remote Desktop to malfunction. Keeping Windows and mstsc.exe updated ensures you have the latest fixes.

To check for Windows updates:

  1. Open Settings (Windows + I).
  2. Go to Windows Update.
  3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

Windows updates often include improvements for Remote Desktop functionality.

Step 7: Use Command Prompt to Reset Network Settings

Network issues can interfere with Remote Desktop. Resetting network settings can fix underlying connectivity problems.

Steps to reset network:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator: Press Windows + S, type cmd, then right-click and choose Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns

Restart your computer after running these commands and try Remote Desktop again.

Step 8: Try Alternative Remote Desktop Clients

If mstsc.exe continues to fail, you can try third-party Remote Desktop applications like Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the Microsoft Store or other trusted tools. These often offer additional features and can work around issues with the default client.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does mstsc.exe keep crashing on Windows 11?

This can happen due to corrupted system files, outdated software, or conflicts with security software. Following the restart, update, and reset steps usually resolves crashes.

Can I use Remote Desktop on Windows 11 Home?

Windows 11 Home supports Remote Desktop client to connect to other PCs but cannot act as a Remote Desktop host. To enable hosting, you need Windows 11 Pro or higher.

How do I enable Remote Desktop on the remote computer?

Go to Settings > System > Remote Desktop and toggle it on. Make sure the PC is awake and connected to the internet.

What does Network Level Authentication (NLA) mean?

NLA enhances security by requiring authentication before a remote session begins. Some older clients may not support NLA, so disabling it temporarily might help troubleshoot connection issues.

Is it safe to disable the firewall for Remote Desktop?

Disabling the firewall temporarily is only for testing. It’s best to create firewall exceptions for Remote Desktop instead of leaving the firewall off permanently.

When Nothing Works

If all troubleshooting steps fail, consider the following options:

  • Use Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Support: Visit the official Microsoft support page for Remote Desktop issues at Microsoft Remote Desktop FAQ.
  • Create a new user profile: Sometimes user profiles get corrupted. Make a new Windows user account and try Remote Desktop from there.
  • Consider a system restore: Roll back Windows to a previous restore point when mstsc.exe was working correctly.
  • Contact IT support: If you are in a corporate environment, your network admin might have specific policies affecting Remote Desktop.

Conclusion

Fixing mstsc.exe issues on Windows 11 usually involves straightforward steps like restarting your PC, checking settings, updating software, and adjusting firewall permissions. Understanding why each step matters helps you troubleshoot more effectively and prevent future problems.

By following this guide from simplest to more advanced solutions, you should be able to restore Remote Desktop Connection quickly and get back to your remote work without stress.

Remember to keep your system updated and verify network and security settings regularly for the best Remote Desktop experience.

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