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How do I fix error code 0x204 on Remote Desktop?

3 min read
2 hours ago

Getting error code 0x204 while trying to use Remote Desktop? Don’t worry! You’re not alone. Many people run into this issue, and thankfully, it’s fixable.

This guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve the problem. Let’s get started!

What Causes Error Code 0x204?

The error 0x204 usually happens when Remote Desktop can’t connect to the remote machine. Several things can cause it:

  • Incorrect Remote Desktop settings
  • Firewall blocking the connection
  • Remote Desktop not enabled
  • Outdated or corrupt Remote Desktop app
  • Network issues

Now that we know the possible reasons, let’s fix them one by one!

Fix 1: Enable Remote Desktop

First, make sure Remote Desktop is turned on:

  1. Press Win + R and type sysdm.cpl. Press Enter.
  2. Go to the Remote tab.
  3. Under “Remote Desktop,” check the option Allow remote connections to this computer.
  4. Click OK and restart your computer.

Try connecting again. If it still doesn’t work, move to the next fix.

Fix 2: Check Your Firewall

Your firewall might be blocking Remote Desktop. To check:

  1. Press Win + R, type firewall.cpl, and hit Enter.
  2. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
  3. Look for Remote Desktop and ensure both Private and Public boxes are checked.
  4. Click OK and try connecting again.

Fix 3: Check Remote Desktop Services

The Remote Desktop service must be running. Follow these steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Find Remote Desktop Services in the list.
  3. Right-click it and select Restart.

This refreshes the service and often fixes the issue.

Fix 4: Update Remote Desktop Application

If you’re using the Remote Desktop app from the Microsoft Store, make sure it’s up to date:

  1. Open the Microsoft Store.
  2. Click on your profile icon and choose Downloads and updates.
  3. Find Remote Desktop and update it if available.

For built-in Remote Desktop users, running Windows Update might help.

Fix 5: Check Network and IP Address

Your remote PC must be reachable. Here’s how to check:

  1. Press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.
  2. Type ping [Remote PC’s IP Address] and hit Enter.
  3. If you get a reply, the PC is reachable. If not, ensure it’s on the same network.
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Fix 6: Add Remote Desktop Users

Make sure your account has permission:

  1. Press Win + R and type lusrmgr.msc.
  2. Go to Groups and double-click Remote Desktop Users.
  3. If your user isn’t listed, click Add and enter your username.
  4. Click OK and restart your computer.

Fix 7: Disable Network Level Authentication (NLA)

Sometimes, NLA can cause issues. Here’s how to disable it:

  1. Press Win + R and type sysdm.cpl. Press Enter.
  2. Go to the Remote tab.
  3. Uncheck Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication.
  4. Click OK and try again.

This should allow connections from older Remote Desktop clients.

What If Nothing Works?

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t connect:

  • Restart both your computer and the remote PC.
  • Check your internet connection.
  • Try using a different Remote Desktop client.
  • Consider reinstalling Remote Desktop.
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Final Thoughts

Error 0x204 may seem tricky, but it’s usually easy to fix. Just go through the steps above, and you should be back up and running in no time!

Good luck, and happy remoting!