This Computer Cannot Connect to the Remote Computer

This Computer Cannot Connect to the Remote Computer: Fix Error

/ Knowledgebase, Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

You may encounter the error message: “This computer cannot connect to the remote computer” when trying to establish a connection. This issue can arise due to several reasons, including network configuration, firewall settings, or incorrect credentials. In this article, we’ll go over the common causes and step-by-step solutions to resolve this problem.

Common Causes of the Error

Before diving into the troubleshooting steps, let’s identify the common reasons why you might see this error:

  1. Remote Desktop is Disabled – The target computer may not have Remote Desktop enabled.
  2. Network Connectivity Issues – There may be a problem with the internet or local network connection.
  3. Incorrect Credentials – The username or password may be incorrect.
  4. Firewall or Antivirus Blocking the Connection – Security software might be preventing the connection.
  5. Remote Desktop Port Blocked – The default Remote Desktop port (3389) could be blocked.
  6. Group Policy Restrictions – Windows Group Policy settings may prevent the connection.
  7. Incorrect IP Address or Hostname – The remote computer’s address may be wrong or inaccessible.
  8. Multiple Remote Desktop Sessions Not Allowed – If Remote Desktop is already in use, additional connections may be blocked.

Step-by-Step Solutions This Computer Cannot Connect to the Remote Computer

1. Enable Remote Desktop on the Target Computer

To allow Remote Desktop connections, you need to ensure the feature is enabled on the remote computer.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type sysdm.cpl, & press Enter.
  2. Go to the Remote tab.
  3. Under Remote Desktop, select Permit remote connections to this computer.
  4. Click Apply and OK.
  5. Restart the computer and try connecting again.

2. Check Network Connectivity

Ensure both computers are connected to a stable network and can communicate with each other.

Steps:

  1. Open Command Prompt on your computer and type:
    ping <RemoteComputerIP>
  2. If you receive a Request Timed Out error, check your network settings.
  3. Restart your modem or router if necessary.
  4. Ensure both computers are on the same network (if accessing locally).

3. Verify Windows Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Sometimes, the Windows Firewall or antivirus software may block Remote Desktop connections.

Steps:

  1. On Windows Security & navigate to Firewall & network security.
  2. Click Allow an app through the firewall.
  3. Find Remote Desktop and ensure both Private and Public networks are allowed.
  4. If using a third-party antivirus, check its firewall settings and allow Remote Desktop.

4. Check Remote Desktop Services

The Remote Desktop Services might be disabled or not running.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, & press Submit.
  2. Scroll down to Remote Desktop Services.
  3. Right-click and select Restart.
  4. Set the Startup type to Automatic.
  5. Try connecting again.

5. Ensure the Correct User is Allowed

Make sure your user account has permission to access the remote computer.

Steps:

  1. Go to System Properties (sysdm.cpl → Remote tab).
  2. Click Select Users.
  3. Add your username if it not listed.
  4. Click OK and try again.

6. Change Remote Desktop Port (if needed)

The default port for Remote Desktop is 3389. If it’s blocked, you may need to change it.

Steps:

  1. Open Registry Editor (Win + R, type regedit, & press Submit).
  2. Navigate to:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp
  3. Find PortNumber, right-click, and select Modify.
  4. Change the port value (e.g., 3390) and restart your computer.

7. Check Group Policy Settings

If your computer is part of a domain, a Group Policy setting may be blocking Remote Desktop.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, & press Submit.
  2. Navigate to:
    Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Remote Desktop Services -> Remote Desktop Session Host -> Merger
  3. Ensure Allow users to connect remotely Enabled.
  4. Apply the changes and restart your PC.

8. Verify DNS and IP Address

Ensure that you are using the correct IP address or hostname when merging.

Steps:

  1. Open Command Prompt and type:
    nslookup <RemoteComputerName>
  2. If the response is incorrect or unresolved, try using the direct IP address.
  3. Use ipconfig /all on the remote computer to check its IP.

9. Check if Multiple RDP Sessions are Allowed

If the remote computer is already in use, you may not be able to connect.

Steps:

  1. Open Registry Editor (regedit).
  2. Navigate to:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server
  3. Look for fSingleSessionPerUser and set it to 0.
  4. Restart the computer.

10. Restart Both Computers

A simple restart can resolve temporary connectivity issues.

Steps:

  1. Restart your local computer.
  2. Restart the remote computer if possible.
  3. Try reconnecting after the restart.

Conclusion

If you see the error “This computer cannot connect to the remote computer”, there are multiple possible causes & solutions. By systematically troubleshooting network issues, firewall settings, Remote Desktop configurations, and user permissions, you can often resolve the issue quickly.

If none of these solutions work, consider updating Windows or consulting your IT administrator for additional assistance. Remote Desktop is a valuable tool, and with the right settings, you can make it work seamlessly.

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