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Why The Remote Resource Can’t Be Reached in Remote Desktop

Why The Remote Resource Can’t Be Reached in Remote Desktop

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David Jonson
·

5 min read

Introduction

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a powerful tool that allows users to connect to and control another computer remotely. However, users sometimes encounter an error message stating, "The remote resource can’t be reached." This issue can be frustrating and may prevent you from accessing a critical remote system. Understanding the causes and solutions to this problem is essential for IT professionals, businesses, and remote workers.

This article explores the common causes of this error and provides detailed troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue effectively.

Common Causes of the Error

Several factors can contribute to the "The remote resource can’t be reached" error in Remote Desktop. Below are the most common reasons:

1. Network Connectivity Issues

Remote Desktop requires a stable network connection. If the network is down or experiencing issues, you won’t be able to establish a remote connection.

2. Incorrect IP Address or Hostname

Using the wrong IP address or hostname can prevent the Remote Desktop client from finding the remote machine.

3. Remote Desktop Not Enabled

If Remote Desktop is not enabled on the target machine, it won’t accept incoming connections.

4. Firewall or Security Software Blocking RDP

Firewalls and security software may block Remote Desktop traffic, preventing a successful connection.

5. Port 3389 Blocked or Changed

Remote Desktop uses port 3389 by default. If this port is blocked or changed, the connection may fail.

6. DNS Configuration Issues

Incorrect DNS settings can prevent the Remote Desktop client from resolving the hostname to the correct IP address.

7. The Remote Computer is Offline or Asleep

If the remote computer is turned off, in sleep mode, or experiencing system crashes, it won’t respond to RDP requests.

8. User Permission Issues

The user attempting to connect may not have the proper permissions to use Remote Desktop.

9. Remote Desktop Services Not Running

If the Remote Desktop Services on the target machine are not running, the connection will fail.

Troubleshooting Steps

To fix the "The remote resource can’t be reached" error, follow these step-by-step troubleshooting methods:

Step 1: Check Network Connectivity

  1. Ensure both the local and remote machines have an active internet connection.

  2. Run a ping test to check connectivity:

     ping <remote-IP-address>

  3. If there’s no response, check the router and network settings.

Step 2: Verify the IP Address or Hostname

  1. On the remote machine, open Command Prompt and type:

     ipconfig

  2. Note down the IPv4 Address and ensure you're using the correct one.

  3. If using a hostname, confirm it resolves to the correct IP using:

     nslookup <hostname>

Step 3: Enable Remote Desktop on the Remote Machine

  1. On the remote computer, go to Settings > System > Remote Desktop.

  2. Toggle Enable Remote Desktop to ON.

  3. Ensure the user has permission under Select users that can remotely access this PC.

Step 4: Check Firewall and Security Software

  1. Open Windows Defender Firewall on the remote machine.

  2. Click Allow an app through Windows Firewall.

  3. Ensure Remote Desktop is allowed for both Private and Public networks.

  4. If using third-party security software, temporarily disable it and try connecting again.

Step 5: Verify Port 3389 is Open

  1. On the remote machine, open Command Prompt as an administrator.

  2. Run the following command to check if port 3389 is listening:

     netstat -an | find "3389"

  3. If the port is not listed, enable it through Windows Firewall.

Step 6: Restart Remote Desktop Services

  1. Open Run (Win + R), type services.msc, and press Enter.

  2. Scroll down to Remote Desktop Services.

  3. Right-click and select Restart.

Step 7: Ensure the Remote Computer is Online

  1. Ask someone near the remote machine to verify if it's powered on.

  2. If using a laptop, disable sleep mode under Power Settings.

  3. Check for system crashes or automatic shutdowns.

Step 8: Check User Permissions

  1. On the remote machine, right-click This PC and select Properties.

  2. Click Remote settings and ensure the user is listed under Remote Desktop Users.

Step 9: Use a Different Connection Method

If RDP still doesn’t work, try using a different remote access tool like:

  • TeamViewer

  • AnyDesk

  • Chrome Remote Desktop

These alternatives can help diagnose whether the issue is specific to RDP or a broader system/network problem.

Preventing Future Remote Desktop Issues

To prevent encountering this error in the future, follow these best practices:

  1. Use a Static IP Address – Prevents changes in remote IP addresses that may disrupt connections.

  2. Set Up Dynamic DNS (DDNS) – Provides a stable hostname for changing IP addresses.

  3. Enable Wake-on-LAN (WOL) – Allows you to wake a remote PC from sleep mode.

  4. Regularly Restart the Remote PC – Ensures services remain running smoothly.

  5. Monitor Firewall Rules – Keep RDP-related rules intact to avoid blocking connections.

  6. Use a VPN for Remote Access – A VPN enhances security and simplifies remote connections.

Conclusion

Encountering the "The remote resource can’t be reached" error in Remote Desktop can be frustrating, but by systematically troubleshooting network connectivity, permissions, firewall settings, and service statuses, you can often resolve the issue quickly. Implementing best practices such as using a VPN, setting a static IP, and monitoring firewall rules can help prevent similar issues in the future.

By following this guide, you can efficiently diagnose and fix Remote Desktop connectivity issues, ensuring seamless remote access when you need it the most.

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