How to Fix Remote Desktop Can't Find the Computer Error Code 0x104

How to Fix Remote Desktop Can’t Find the Computer Error Code 0x104?

/ Knowledgebase, Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

The error code 0x104 in Remote Desktop Connection (RDP) is a common issue encountered when connecting to a remote computer. This error typically indicates a problem with network settings, firewall configurations, or DNS resolution. In this guide, we’ll explore the causes of Remote Desktop can’t find the computer error code 0x104 and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it effectively.

What Causes Error Code 0x104 in Remote Desktop?

The error code 0x104 occurs when your computer cannot locate the target machine through Remote Desktop. Common causes include:

  • Incorrect Computer Name or IP Address
  • Network Configuration Issues
  • Firewall Blocking the Connection
  • Remote Desktop Not Enabled on the Target PC
  • DNS Resolution Problems
  • Outdated RDP Settings

How to Fix Remote Desktop Can’t Find the Computer Error Code 0x104: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Verify Computer Name and IP Address

The first step is to confirm that the computer name or IP address you’re trying to connect to is correct.

Steps to Check IP Address:

  1. On the target computer, press the Win + R button, type cmd, & hit Enter.
  2. In the Command Prompt, type:
    ipconfig
  3. Note the IPv4 Address of the computer.

On the client computer, ensure you use this IP address for the RDP connection rather than the computer’s name to avoid DNS issues.

Step 2: Ensure the Remote Desktop is Enabled

  1. On the target computer, press Win + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to System → Remote Desktop.
  3. Enable the toggle for Remote Desktop.
  4. Confirm your selection by clicking Confirm.
  5. Note the PC name shown here as it’s required for the connection.

Step 3: Configure Firewall Settings

Windows Firewall such as blocking the Remote Desktop connection.

Steps to Allow Remote Desktop Through Firewall:

  1. Press the Win + R button and type firewall.cpl, & hit Enter.
  2. Click Permission for an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
  3. Searching Remote Desktop in the list & ensuring both Private & Public are checked.
  4. Click OK to save changes.

Step 4: Enable Network Discovery

If Network Discovery is disabled, the RDP connection may fail.

Steps to Enable Network Discovery:

  1. Open the Control Panel & navigate to the Network & Sharing Center.
  2. Click Change advanced sharing settings.
  3. Under Private network settings, ensure Turn on network discovery is selected.
  4. Save changes.

Step 5: Verify DNS Settings

If DNS settings are incorrect, your computer may be unable to resolve the remote machine’s name.

Steps to Flush DNS Cache:

  1. Press the Win + R button, type cmd, & hit Enter.
  2. In the Command Prompt, type:
    ipconfig /flushdns
  3. Press Enter to clear the DNS cache.

If issues persist, consider setting Google DNS for improved resolution:

    1. Open Control Panel.
    2. Go to Network and Internet → Network Connections.
    3. Right-click your active network and select Properties.
    4. Select Internet Protocol Version (4) four (TCP/IPv4) & click Properties.
    5. Select Use the seeing DNS server addresses & enter:
      • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
      • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
    6. Click OK to save changes.

Step 6: Check Port Forwarding (For External Connections)

If you’re connecting from outside your network, ensure port forwarding is correctly configured.

Steps to Enable Port Forwarding:

  1. Access your router’s admin panel by typing its IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.1) into your browser.
  2. Log in with your router credentials.
  3. Locate the Port Forwarding section.
  4. Forward TCP Port 3389 to the internal IP address of the target computer.
  5. Save changes and restart your router if necessary.

Step 7: Use the Correct RDP Protocol Settings

Outdated or incorrect protocol settings may cause connection issues.

Steps to Adjust RDP Settings:

  1. Open Remote Desktop Connection by pressing Win + R, typing mstsc, and hitting Enter.
  2. Click Show Options.
  3. Run to the Advanced tab & click Settings under Merge from anywhere.
  4. Choose Use these RD Gateway server settings and enter the appropriate server address.
  5. Click OK to save.

Step 8: Disable VPN or Proxy

A VPN or proxy connection can sometimes interfere with Remote Desktop. Try disabling them temporarily to look if it resolves the issue.

Steps to Disable VPN/Proxy:

  1. Open Settings → Network & Internet.
  2. Go to the VPN tab and disconnect any active connections.
  3. In the Proxy tab, ensure no proxy server is enabled.

Step 9: Update Windows and Network Drivers

Outdated drivers or pending updates may cause RDP issues.

Steps to Update Windows:

  1. Open Settings → Windows Update.
  2. Click Checking for updates & install any pending updates.

Steps to Update Network Drivers:

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Right-click your network adapter and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.

Step 10: Perform a Network Reset

If none of the above steps work, resetting your network settings may help.

Steps to Reset Network Settings:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Run to Network & Internet → Advanced network settings.
  3. Click Network reset and follow the prompts.

Conclusion

The Remote Desktop error code 0x104 can be frustrating, but with careful troubleshooting, it can be resolved. By verifying network settings, configuring firewalls, updating system drivers, and ensuring proper DNS configurations, you can restore your RDP connection quickly. If you continue facing issues, consider seeking professional IT support for deeper network analysis.

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