How to fix the 'Why can't remote desktop connect to the remote computer' error?
Here are the most common troubleshooting methods to help restore your remote desktop access:
Check your network connection
Before diving deeper, ensure both devices (local and remote) are connected to the internet. Try pinging the remote computer to check reachability:
ping [remote IP address]
If the ping fails, the system might be offline or unreachable.
Make sure the remote desktop is enabled on the remote device
On the computer you're trying to access:
- Navigate to Settings > System > Remote Desktop
- Ensure the toggle for Enable Remote Desktop is turned ON
- Also, confirm that the PC is set to be discoverable on the network
Check firewall and security settings
Sometimes, the system’s firewall blocks incoming remote desktop connections:
- Open Windows Defender Firewall
- Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall
- Find and ensure the remote desktop is checked for both private and public networks
Confirm the remote computer is awake and available
If the device is in sleep mode, hibernation, or powered off, the connection will fail. You can:
- Wake up or restart the system remotely (if possible)
- Ask someone on-site to wake the device
- Configure Wake-on-LAN settings for future sessions
Verify Port 3389 is open
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) uses port 3389. If it’s blocked by a router or firewall, the connection won’t work. Make sure it’s open and properly forwarded.
- Open the Router Settings or Firewall Configuration
- Forward or allow TCP port 3389
- Make sure no other app is using the same port
Update remote desktop client and Windows
Outdated software can cause compatibility issues with newer security protocols:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update
- Install any available updates
- Ensure your RDP client is on the latest version
DNS or IP issues
Sometimes, DNS misconfigurations or dynamic IP addresses can block your connection. Try:
- Connecting using the static IP address of the remote machine instead of the hostname
- Checking if Dynamic DNS is properly configured
Ensure Network-Level Authentication (NLA) compatibility
If your remote PC requires Network-Level Authentication, make sure your local system supports it. If it doesn't you can disable NLA temporarily
- On the remote computer, go to System Properties > Remote
- Under Remote Desktop, click Allow remote connections to this computer
- Uncheck Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication (recommended)
Restart Remote Desktop Services
If services like Remote desktop services, RASMan, or Remote desktop manager aren't running:
- Press Win + R, type "services.msc", and press Enter
- Restart Remote Desktop Services, Remote Access Connection Manager, Remote Desktop Configuration
Reset network configuration
A corrupt network stack may block connections. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:
netsh winsock reset ipconfig /flushdns
Still getting the “Unable to Connect” error? Zoho Assist offers a hassle-free remote PC access experience without the need for port forwarding or complex setup.