Common Remote Desktop Protocol Errors and How to Fix Them

Remote desktop protocols such as RDP are essential for accessing computers remotely, but users often encounter errors that prevent successful connections. These issues typically fall into three main categories: permission errors, connection errors, and configuration errors. Understanding the causes and solutions for these problems can help users restore access quickly. This article explains the most common remote desktop errors and provides practical troubleshooting steps, along with a recommendation for a modern alternative: AweSun.

1. Most Common Errors in Remote Desktop Protocols

Remote desktop errors can generally be grouped into three categories:

Permission Errors: These occur when the user account lacks sufficient rights to access the remote computer.

Connection Errors: These happen when the remote computer is unreachable due to network problems, closed ports, or stopped services.

Configuration Errors: Restrictions in system policies, group policy settings, or registry values can block remote connections even if credentials and network access are correct.

Identifying which category the error falls into is the first step in resolving the problem.

2. Permission Errors: 0x80070005 "Access Denied"

The 0x80070005 error typically appears when the user account does not have permission to log in remotely. This can happen due to:

The account lacking Remote Desktop access rights.

Incorrect username or password.

Account lockout or expired password.

How to Resolve:

Ensure the user is a member of the “Remote Desktop Users” group on the remote computer.

Verify the login credentials and reset the password if necessary.

Check that the account is not disabled or locked due to multiple failed login attempts.

3. Connection Errors: "Unable to Connect to the Remote Computer"

When RDP displays a connection failure message, the issue may be related to network access or services. Common causes include:

Firewall blocking the Remote Desktop port (default is TCP 3389).

The Remote Desktop service on the host computer is not running.

Network instability or unreachable IP addresses.

How to Resolve:

Confirm that the remote computer is powered on and connected to the network.

Check that the RDP service is running: Services > Remote Desktop Services.

Verify that the firewall allows RDP traffic and the correct port is open.

If using a router or VPN, ensure port forwarding or network configuration allows the connection.

4. Configuration Errors: Group Policy or Registry Restrictions

Sometimes remote access fails due to restrictions set in Windows policies or the registry. For example:

Group Policy may disable RDP or enforce network-level authentication that blocks access.

Registry settings might prevent remote login for certain accounts.

How to Resolve:

Open gpedit.msc and navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services. Adjust policies to allow remote connections.

Check registry keys under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server and confirm the fDenyTSConnections value is set to 0.

Restart the remote computer after applying changes.

5. Recommendation: Using AweSun for Remote Control

For users who want to avoid common RDP errors, AweSun offers a reliable alternative. AweSun provides:

Easy setup: No complex port forwarding or network configuration required.

Cross-platform support: Access computers on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

High performance: Real-time control with low latency and stable connections.

Security: End-to-end encryption ensures safe remote access.

Advanced features: File transfer, unattended access, multi-monitor support, and session recording.

By using AweSun, users can bypass many permission, connection, and configuration issues that frequently disrupt traditional remote desktop protocols.

Conclusion

Remote desktop protocol errors can be frustrating, but most fall into three main categories: permission errors, connection errors, and configuration errors. By verifying user rights, checking network and service status, and reviewing system policies, users can usually restore remote access. For a smoother and more reliable experience, AweSun offers a modern, secure, and easy-to-use solution for remote control, eliminating many of the challenges associated with traditional remote desktop connections.