Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a crucial tool for IT professionals, businesses, and even home users who need remote access to computers. To create RDP connections more securely, Microsoft introduced Network Level Authentication (NLA). Enabling NLA on your RDP client adds a hard layer of security, ensuring that only authenticated users can establish a remote session. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what NLA is, why it’s important, and — most importantly — how to enable NLA on an RDP client step-by-step.
What is NLA in Remote Desktop?
Network Level Authentication (NLA) is a security feature that requires users to authenticate themselves before a full RDP connection is founded. It protects the remote system from unauthorized users and potential attacks by validating the user’s credentials early in the connection process.
In short:
Without NLA → RDP server exposes the login screen to anyone.
With NLA → Only verified users even get a chance to see the login screen.
Why Should You Enable NLA?
Here’s why enabling NLA is considered best practice:
- Increased Security: Prevents unauthenticated users from accessing the RDP session.
- Reduced Resource Load: Saves server resources by authenticating before creating a full session.
- Protection Against Brute Force Attacks: Helps mitigate the risk of common RDP exploits.
- Compliance Requirements: Some industries require NLA for cybersecurity compliance (e.g., HIPAA, PCI DSS).
How to Enable NLA on an RDP Client (Windows)
Most modern Windows versions (Windows 10, Windows 11, & Windows Server editions) support NLA out of the packet. Here’s how you can enable it from your RDP client side:
Step-1: Open Remote Desktop Connection
- Press the Windows + R buttons to open the Run dialog box.
- Type mstsc and press Enter.
- This will launch the Remote Desktop Connection window.
Step-2: Show Advanced Settings
- In the RDP Connection window, press on Show Options at the botton.
- Navigate to the Advanced tab.
Step-3: Configure Authentication Settings
Under the Server authentication section, you’ll see options related to how the RDP client handles server authentication.
- Confirm the option “If server authentication fails, don’t connect” is selected.
- This ensures your client only connects if proper network-level authentication is validated.
Step 4: Save Your Settings
- Go back to the General tab.
- Click Save to save the settings for future sessions, or Save As if you want to create a custom RDP connection file.
(Optional) Forcing NLA via RDP File
If you’re using an .rdp file (for scripted or automated connections), you directly add this line to ensure NLA required:
makefile Copy enablecredsspsupport:i:1 authentication level:i:2
- enablecredsspsupport:i:1 → Enables Credential Security Support Provider (CredSSP), required for NLA.
- authentication level:i:2 → Forces the client to require authentication before connection.
Just open your .rdp file with Notepad, paste these lines at the finish, & save it.
How to On NLA on the Remote Host (Server Side)
Important: Even if you configure the RDP client properly, the remote computer must also have NLA enabled for the connection to work.
Here’s how to enable NLA on the target machine:
- Right-click on This PC → Properties.
- Click Remote settings on the left panel.
- Under Remote Desktop, select:
Allow connections only from a desktop running RDP with Network Level Authentication (many secure). - Click Apply and OK.
Also, ensure that:
- Windows Firewall allows Remote Desktop connections.
- The user you’re trying to log in with allowed in the RDP Users group.
Troubleshooting NLA Connection Issues
Sometimes, even after enabling NLA, you might face connection problems. Here’s how to fix common issues:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Error: “The remote computer requires Network Level Authentication…” | Ensure the client supports NLA (Windows XP SP3 or newer) and that it’s enabled. |
| Credentials not accepted | Check if the remote user has permissions for Remote Desktop access. |
| Can’t enable NLA | Verify Windows updates are installed; some older systems may need patches. |
| Firewall blocks RDP | Open port 3389 on the firewall for Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) traffic. |
Final Thoughts
Enabling NLA on your RDP client is one of the easiest and most effective ways to enhance the security of your remote sessions. It not only protects against unauthorized access but also reduces the attack surface exposed by your remote desktops.
Whether you’re an IT professional managing dozens of servers or a small business owner working remotely, enabling NLA is a smart move toward safer and more efficient remote access.
Stay secure, stay connected!
