My Account | Help
< All Topics
Print

How to Fix Common RDP Connection Errors on Windows VPS

PostedApril 9, 2025
UpdatedApril 9, 2025
ByServers9

Can’t connect to your Windows VPS via Remote Desktop? Don’t worry—RDP connection issues are common and often easy to fix. Whether you’re getting “Remote Desktop can’t connect to the remote computer” or a black screen after login, this guide will help you diagnose and solve the most frequent problems.

🔹 1. “Remote Desktop Can’t Connect to the Remote Computer”

This is the most common error. It usually points to a network issue, service not running, or firewall block.

✅ Fixes:

  • Make sure the VPS is powered on and responsive
  • Check that RDP is enabled (via console or provider panel)
  • Confirm port 3389 is open on:
    • Windows Firewall (wf.msc)
    • VPS provider’s security/firewall rules
  • Restart the Remote Desktop Services:
    • Open services.msc and restart Remote Desktop Services

🔹 2. Black Screen After Login

You connect successfully, but all you see is a black screen.

✅ Fixes:

  • Press Ctrl + Alt + End → Sign Out, then reconnect
  • Restart the VPS if possible
  • Update Remote Desktop Client on your local PC
  • Lower the resolution and disable visual effects in RDP settings:
    • Open RDP > Show Options > Display tab > reduce resolution
    • Experience tab > uncheck “desktop background”, “font smoothing”, etc.

🔹 3. “The Credentials Did Not Work” Error

Your username or password is rejected even though you’re sure it’s correct.

✅ Fixes:

  • Double-check the username format: Administrator, not admin
  • Make sure Caps Lock isn’t on
  • Reset the VPS password from your hosting panel if possible
  • Use console access to log in and reset the password manually

🔹 4. Connection Timeout or No Response

You try to connect, but nothing happens—it just spins or times out.

✅ Fixes:

  • Ensure port 3389 is open (in both Windows Firewall and your provider’s settings)
  • Ping the VPS IP to confirm it’s reachable: ping [your-vps-ip]
  • Try connecting via console to restart networking or RDP services
  • If you’re using a dynamic IP, make sure it hasn’t changed (rare with most VPS providers)

🔹 5. RDP Works Locally But Not Remotely

This typically happens when a firewall or external network setting is blocking access.

✅ Fixes:

  • Open port 3389 in Windows Defender Firewall > Inbound Rules
  • Add a rule in your hosting panel’s firewall/security group to allow TCP on 3389
  • Temporarily disable the firewall to test (then re-enable and configure properly)

🔹 6. Licensing or Certificate Errors

You may see messages about RDP licensing or certificate verification.

✅ Fixes:

  • Try reconnecting and click “Yes” or “Continue” on the certificate warning
  • For certificate issues:
    • Open Remote Desktop Connection > Advanced tab > Settings
    • Change authentication to “Always connect, even if authentication fails” (temporary fix)

🛠️ For licensing errors: Contact your hosting provider if the issue persists—they may need to reset the RDP license manager.

🔐 Bonus Tips for Stable RDP Connections

  • Use Network Level Authentication (NLA) for secure logins
  • Avoid frequent disconnects by disabling Sleep or Hibernate modes
  • Use static IP addresses or dynamic DNS for easier access
  • Keep Windows and RDP client up to date

RDP errors can be frustrating, especially when you’re relying on your VPS for critical tasks. Thankfully, most issues stem from simple configuration errors, firewall blocks, or temporary glitches. By following the steps above, you can get back to your VPS quickly—and even prevent future disruptions.

Table of Contents