Windows 11 has introduced numerous features, improvements, and a fresh interface, making it an exciting update for both personal and business users. However, with any new operating system update, there can be some hiccups along the way. One such issue that users have reported is not being able to find or use the Remote Desktop Connection feature on Windows 11. Whether you’re trying to connect to another PC remotely for work or personal use, Remote Desktop can be an essential tool, but sometimes it just doesn’t show up or doesn’t work as expected.
If you’re struggling with the Remote Desktop Connection not appearing or functioning correctly in Windows 11, you’re not alone. Fortunately, this article will guide you through the troubleshooting process, helping you restore Remote Desktop functionality step-by-step.
What is Remote Desktop?
Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand what Remote Desktop is and how it works. Remote Desktop allows a user to connect to a computer over a network connection, giving them access to the desktop and applications of that computer as if they were sitting right in front of it. This is a powerful tool for IT professionals, remote workers, and anyone who needs to access their computer from a different location. Remote Desktop is particularly useful for accessing servers, tech support, or home computers when away from home or the office.
In Windows 11, Remote Desktop is available in two versions:
Remote Desktop Connection (RDC) – The standard version that allows you to connect from one Windows machine to another.
Remote Desktop (via the Settings) – This enables users to control their PC remotely, also allowing others to connect.
However, in some cases, users may encounter issues when trying to find or use Remote Desktop. If you're unable to locate the Remote Desktop Connection app or it’s not working properly, here are some of the possible reasons and solutions.
1. Remote Desktop Not Installed or Disabled
In some cases, Remote Desktop might not be available or enabled by default on your system. Windows 11 Home edition, for example, doesn’t come with the option to host Remote Desktop connections, meaning you can only connect to another PC running Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education. If you’re on Windows 11 Home and need this feature, you may need to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro.
If you are using Windows 11 Pro and still cannot find Remote Desktop Connection, it might be disabled. Here's how to enable it:
Step 1: Enable Remote Desktop from Settings
Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I.
Navigate to System > Remote Desktop.
Toggle the switch to On under Remote Desktop.
Confirm any prompts and follow the on-screen instructions to enable Remote Desktop.
Step 2: Ensure Remote Desktop is Enabled in the Control Panel
Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type sysdm.cpl and press Enter to open the System Properties window.
Go to the Remote tab.
Under Remote Desktop, make sure the option to Allow remote connections to this computer is checked.
Click Apply and then OK.
Step 3: Restart Your PC
Sometimes changes in settings may require a restart. After enabling Remote Desktop, restart your system to ensure that the feature is fully enabled.
2. Use the Search Function to Find Remote Desktop Connection
Sometimes, users simply can’t find the Remote Desktop Connection app because they’re unsure where to look. Here’s how to locate it using Windows 11’s search functionality:
Press Windows + S to open the search bar.
Type Remote Desktop Connection into the search bar.
Click on the application that appears in the search results to open it.
If this method doesn’t work, it could indicate that the application is either corrupted or missing, requiring further troubleshooting.
3. Check Windows Features
Another possible reason why Remote Desktop is not showing up in Windows 11 could be that the feature is turned off through Windows Features settings. Windows 11 offers users the ability to enable or disable certain system features.
Step 1: Open Windows Features
Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type optionalfeatures.exe and press Enter to open Windows Features.
Scroll down to see if Remote Desktop Services or Remote Desktop Client is checked. If it’s unchecked, check the box.
Step 2: Restart Your PC
Once you’ve enabled Remote Desktop through Windows Features, restart your computer to ensure that it is correctly activated.
4. Check Network and Firewall Settings
Firewall or network settings might be blocking Remote Desktop connections. To fix this, follow these steps:
Step 1: Allow Remote Desktop Through the Firewall
Press Windows + R and type control to open the Control Panel.
Go to System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
On the left side, click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
Scroll down and find Remote Desktop in the list, then check both the Private and Public boxes next to it.
Click OK to save your changes.
Step 2: Check the Network Connection
Ensure that the computer you are trying to connect to is on the same network or that proper port forwarding is set up if connecting remotely over the internet. Remote Desktop typically uses port 3389, so if you're accessing it from a different network, make sure this port is not blocked by your router or firewall.
- Use the Remote Desktop App in the Microsoft Store If you still can't find the traditional Remote Desktop Connection app, you may want to use the newer Remote Desktop app available in the Microsoft Store.
Open the Microsoft Store on your Windows 11 computer.
Search for the Remote Desktop app.
Download and install the app from the Store.
Open the app and enter the necessary connection details.
The Remote Desktop app provides a modernized interface with additional features such as multi-monitor support and enhanced performance over the internet.
6. Update Windows 11
Sometimes, issues with Remote Desktop can be caused by outdated or missing system updates. To ensure you’re running the latest version of Windows 11, follow these steps:
Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
Navigate to Windows Update.
Click on Check for Updates and install any available updates.
Restart your computer to complete the installation of updates.
Updating your system can resolve bugs or glitches that may be preventing the Remote Desktop feature from working properly.
7. Perform System Restore or Reset
If none of the above solutions work, and you suspect there might be an underlying issue with your system configuration, you could perform a System Restore to revert your computer to an earlier state when everything was working fine. Alternatively, a Reset can restore your PC to its default settings while keeping your files intact.
To Perform a System Restore:
Press Windows + R, type rstrui and press Enter.
Follow the prompts to restore your system to a previous point.
To Reset Your PC:
Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
Under Reset this PC, select Get Started and follow the prompts.
Conclusion
While not being able to find Remote Desktop Connection in Windows 11 can be frustrating, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to restore its functionality. By ensuring that Remote Desktop is enabled, checking your network settings, using the search function, and updating Windows 11, you can quickly solve the problem and get back to using Remote Desktop for remote connections.
If all else fails, consider reaching out to Microsoft support for additional assistance or performing a system reset. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making the most of Remote Desktop in Windows 11.
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