How to Fix Windows 11 23H2 RDP Not Working Issue

How to Fix Windows 11 23H2 RDP Not Working Issue? Step-by-Step Solution

/ Knowledgebase, Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

Windows 11 23H2 is a major update packed with new features and security enhancements. However, users have reported issues with Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) not working after upgrading to this version. If you are facing this problem, this guide will provide step-by-step solutions on how to fix Windows 11 23H2 RDP not working issue.

Common Causes of Windows 11 23H2 RDP Issues

Several factors could be causing Remote Desktop to malfunction. The most common ones include:

  • Incorrect Remote Desktop settings
  • Firewall blocking RDP ports
  • Outdated or corrupted drivers
  • Network connectivity issues
  • Remote Desktop Services not running
  • Group Policy misconfigurations
  • Windows updates affecting RDP functionality

How to Fix Windows 11 23H2 RDP Not Working Issue: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Verify Remote Desktop Settings

Incorrect settings are a common reason for RDP issues. Follow these steps to ensure Remote Desktop is correctly configured:

  1. Go to Settings: Press the button Win + I to open Settings.
  2. Navigate to System > Remote Desktop.
  3. Ensure the Remote Desktop toggle is switched to On.
  4. Click Confirm if prompted.
  5. Verify that your computer is set to accept remote connections by ensuring the “Require devices to use Network Level Authentication (NLA)” option is enabled.

Step 2: Check Firewall Rules

Windows Firewall can sometimes block RDP connections. Follow these steps to configure the firewall:

  1. Press the button Win + R, type firewall.cpl, and press Enter.
  2. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Protector Firewall.
  3. Search Remote Desktop in the list & ensure both Private & Public boxes are checked.
  4. If Remote Desktop is missing from the list, click Change Settings > Allow another app…, then add mstsc.exe from the C:\Windows\System32 folder.

Step 3: Restart Remote Desktop Services

Remote Desktop requires several services to be running correctly. Restarting these services may resolve connection issues:

    1. Press Button Win + R, type services.msc, & press Enter.
    2. Locate the following services:
      • Remote Desktop Services
      • Remote Desktop Configuration
      • Remote Desktop UserMode Port Redirector
    3. Right-click each service and select Restart.

Step 4: Verify Network Connectivity

RDP requires stable network connectivity. Follow these steps to ensure network issues are not the cause:

  1. Confirm your computer has an active internet connection.
  2. Open the Command Prompt by pressing the button Win + R, typing cmd, & pressing Enter.
  3. Type ping <RemoteComputerIPAddress> and press Enter.
  4. If packets are dropped, investigate your network setup.

Step 5: Open RDP Port 3389 in the Router

By default, RDP uses port 3389. If this port is blocked at the router level, connections will fail. To open the port:

  1. Log into your router’s web interface.
  2. Locate the Port Forwarding section.
  3. Add a new rule for Port 3389 with your computer’s local IP address.
  4. Save the changes and restart the router if needed.

Step 6: Update Windows 11 and Drivers

Outdated system updates or drivers may cause RDP issues. To update Windows:

  1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates & installing few available updates.

To update your network drivers:

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Right-click your network device and select Update driver.

Step 7: Modify Group Policy Settings

Windows Group Policy settings can sometimes block RDP connections. Here’s how to adjust them:

    1. Press Button Win + R, type gpedit.msc, & press Enter.
    2. Navigate to:
      • Desktop Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Connections
    3. Double-click Allow users to connect remotely using Remote Desktop Services & set it to ON.
    4. Click Apply, then OK.

Step 8: Enable RDP Through PowerShell

PowerShell can also enable RDP. Follow these steps:

  1. Open PowerShell as an administrator.
  2. Run the following command:
    Set-ItemProperty -Path 'HKLM:\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server' -Name "fDenyTSConnections" -Value 0
Enable-NetFirewallRule -DisplayGroup "Remote Desktop"
  3. Restart your computer for changes to take effect.

Step 9: Check for Conflicting Applications

Certain third-party applications or security software may interfere with RDP. Temporarily disable these apps and attempt to connect again. Antivirus software, VPNs, or third-party firewalls are common culprits.

Step 10: Perform a System Restore

If the RDP issue started recently after an update or configuration change, performing a system restore may resolve the problem:

  1. Press Button Win + R, type rstrui.exe, & press Enter.
  2. Seeing the prompts to restore your method to a previous state.

Conclusion

Windows 11 23H2 RDP connectivity issues can arise due to various factors such as misconfigured settings, firewall restrictions, or network problems. By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve Remote Desktop connection issues effectively. For persistent problems, consider consulting Microsoft support for further assistance.

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