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How to Enable or Disable RDP Access on Your Windows VPS

PostedApril 9, 2025
UpdatedApril 9, 2025
ByServers9

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is the main way users access their Windows VPS. While RDP is extremely convenient, it can also be a security risk if left open without proper management. In this guide, you’ll learn how to enable or disable RDP access securely on your VPS.

🔹 Why Manage RDP Access?

  • ✅ Enable RDP if you want to access your VPS remotely.
  • ❌ Disable RDP when not in use to reduce exposure to potential attacks.
  • 🔐 Combine access control with firewalls and strong passwords for better security.

🔸 Part 1: How to Enable RDP Access on Windows VPS

By default, RDP is usually enabled on most Windows Server VPS setups. But if it’s disabled or blocked, follow the steps below:

✅ Method 1: Enable RDP via System Settings

  1. Connect to your VPS using the console provided by your hosting provider (or through another user with access).
  2. Go to: Start > Settings > System > Remote Desktop
  3. Toggle “Enable Remote Desktop” to On.
  4. Click Confirm if prompted.
  5. Under “User accounts,” ensure that the Administrator or any other allowed users are listed.

✅ Method 2: Enable RDP via Control Panel (Windows Server 2016/2019/2022)

  1. Open Control Panel > System and Security > System
  2. Click Remote Settings in the left sidebar.
  3. In the System Properties window:
    • Under Remote Desktop, select: Allow remote connections to this computer
    • (Optional but recommended) Uncheck: Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication if you’re connecting from an older client.
  4. Click Apply and OK.

🔸 Part 2: How to Disable RDP Access on Windows VPS

If you want to temporarily or permanently disable remote access:

✅ Method 1: Disable from Settings

  1. Go to: Start > Settings > System > Remote Desktop
  2. Toggle “Enable Remote Desktop” to Off.

✅ Method 2: Disable via Firewall Rules

  1. Open Windows Defender Firewall > Advanced Settings
  2. Click on Inbound Rules
  3. Find the rule: Remote Desktop - User Mode (TCP-In)
  4. Right-click and choose Disable Rule

🔒 This method blocks RDP access without changing system settings—useful for temporary lockouts.

🔧 Additional Security Tips

  • 🔐 Change the default RDP port (3389) to something custom
  • 🌐 Restrict RDP access by IP via firewall rules
  • 📊 Monitor login attempts using Event Viewer or intrusion detection tools
  • 🧱 Use an RDP Gateway or VPN for extra security

🛠️ Troubleshooting

  • Still can’t connect after enabling RDP?
    • Make sure port 3389 is open in both Windows Firewall and your VPS provider’s security group.
    • Check that the RDP service is running:
      Run services.msc > Ensure Remote Desktop Services is “Running”
  • Locked out after disabling RDP?
    • Use your provider’s console access to log back in and re-enable RDP manually.

RDP access is powerful, but with great power comes the need for control. Enable it when needed, lock it down when not, and always pair it with other layers of protection like firewalls, VPNs, and strong credentials.

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