Step-by-Step Guide to Enable Remote Desktop via Command Tools

2024/01/04

Key Notes

Commands can be run via either Command Prompt or PowerShell to enable Remote Desktop.
Ensure that Windows Firewall settings permit Remote Desktop connections.
Restart your PC to apply changes to Remote Desktop settings effectively.

Unlocking Remote Desktop Access on Windows 10/11

Remote Desktop is a powerful feature in Windows 10 and 11, allowing users to control their computers remotely. This capability is invaluable for accessing files and applications from afar. This guide presents straightforward methods to enable Remote Desktop using the Command Prompt and PowerShell, providing a quick alternative to the conventional settings route.

Enabling Remote Desktop Access

Step 1: Activate Remote Desktop via Command Prompt

To enable Remote Desktop using Command Prompt, follow these steps:

Press Windows + S, type CMD in the search bar.
Right-click on the top result and choose Run as administrator.
Authorize the action in the UAC prompt by clicking Yes.
In the elevated command window, enter the following command and hit Enter :

reg add "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server"/v fDenyTSConnections /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f

Pro Tip: The command allows incoming Remote Desktop connections by modifying the registry.

To ensure that Windows Firewall allows these connections, execute the next command:

netsh advfirewall firewall set rule group="remote desktop" new enable=Yes

After running these commands, restart your PC. Log back in to verify if Remote Desktop access is successful.

Step 2: Deactivate Remote Desktop via Command Prompt

If you wish to disable Remote Desktop:

Open the Run dialog by pressing Windows + R.
Type CMD and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to launch as admin.
In the elevated console, enter this command:

reg add "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server"/v fDenyTSConnections /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f

Pro Tip: Running this command disables all Remote Desktop connections.

Then to block these connections via Windows Firewall, execute:

netsh advfirewall firewall set rule group="remote desktop" new enable=No

Once done, close the Command Prompt and restart your PC.

Step 3: Enable Remote Desktop using PowerShell

To use PowerShell for enabling Remote Desktop, follow these instructions:

Right-click the Windows icon and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
In the User Account Control dialog, click Yes.
Copy and paste the following command into the terminal and press Enter :

Set-ItemProperty -Path 'HKLM:\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server' -name "fDenyTSConnections" -value 0

Pro Tip: Change the value to 1 to disable Remote Desktop using the same command.

To enable Windows Firewall for Remote Desktop, input this command:

Enable-NetFirewallRule -DisplayGroup "Remote Desktop"

Close PowerShell and restart your PC to apply changes successfully.

Step 4: Disable Remote Desktop using PowerShell

If you want to disable Remote Desktop via PowerShell:

Press Win + X and choose Windows Terminal (Admin).
Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
Run this command to disable Remote Desktop:

Set-ItemProperty -Path 'HKLM:\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server' -name "fDenyTSConnections" -value 1

Pro Tip: After this command, run Disable-NetFirewallRule -DisplayGroup "Remote Desktop" to block Remote Desktop through the firewall.

Close PowerShell and reboot your PC for the changes to take effect.

Additional Tips for Remote Desktop Management

Always verify your firewall settings to prevent connection issues.
Ensure that the user account you’re using has permission for remote access.
Consider using a strong password for accounts that have Remote Desktop access enabled.

Summary of Remote Desktop Setup

This guide has explored how to enable and disable Remote Desktop on Windows 10 and 11 using Command Prompt and PowerShell. We also covered the critical importance of adjusting firewall settings and ensuring proper permissions for effective remote access.

Final Thoughts on Remote Desktop Usage

Remote Desktop offers flexibility and convenience for users needing access to their systems from different locations. By following this guide, you can easily enable or disable this functionality as needed while maintaining security. Make the most of remote access efficiently!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is Remote Desktop?

Remote Desktop allows a computer to be operated remotely, enabling file access and control from a different device.

How secure is Remote Desktop?

When configured correctly, using strong passwords and firewall settings, Remote Desktop is a secure means of accessing your computer.