How to Fix Remote Desktop Identity Verification Issues with Remote Computers
Key Notes
- Ensure synchronized time settings for both devices.
- Use the correct IP address for remote connections.
- Check DNS configurations for proper functionality.
Resolving Remote Desktop Connection Identity Verification Errors
When working with Remote Desktop Connection (RDC), users may encounter the frustrating error message: “Remote Desktop cannot verify the remote computer’s identity.” This often stems from misconfigured system settings, particularly discrepancies in time and date between the host and remote computers.
Solution 1: Sync Date and Time Settings
Step 1: Access System Settings
Press Win + I to open the Settings window.
Step 2: Explore Time & Language Settings
Click on the “Time & Language” tab.
Step 3: Modify Date & Time
Open the “Date & Time” settings to review your current configurations.
Step 4: Enable Automatic Time Setting
On the right pane, toggle the “Set time automatically” option to ‘On’.
Step 5: Retry Remote Connection
Once automatic time setting is enabled, attempt to reconnect to the remote computer.
Pro Tip: For command line users, synchronize time using the Command Prompt.
Step 6: Sync Time via Command Line
Open the Command Prompt as an administrator and enter:
net time \\remote-computer-IP-address
Make sure to substitute “remote-computer-IP-address” with the actual IP of the remote device.
Step 7: Restart Time Service if Necessary
If there are discrepancies, execute the following commands:
net stop w32time & net start w32time & w32tm /resync
Solution 2: Connect Using IP Address
Ensure to use the correct IP address instead of the device name when establishing a Remote Desktop Connection.
Example: To connect to a PC named “Sambit-PC, ” use its public IP address instead: 123.234.234.1.
Solution 3: Verify DNS Server Settings
Step 1: Check DNS Connection
Open the Command Prompt with administrative privileges and execute:
nslookup server_name DNSServername
Make sure to fill in “server_name” and “DNSServername” accordingly.
If this command does not return expected results, review and correctly configure your DNS server settings.
Solution 4: Disable Real-Time Protection
Step 1: Open Windows Security
Access Windows Security via the search box.
Step 2: Navigate to Virus & Threat Protection
Select “Virus & threat protection” settings.
Step 3: Manage Protection Settings
Scroll down to “Manage settings” in the Virus & threat protection pane.
Step 4: Toggle Real-Time Protection Off
Switch the “Real-time protection” option to “Off”.
Disabling this feature can allow for uninterrupted access to remote systems.
Solution 5: Adjust RDP Layer Security Settings
Step 1: Launch Group Policy Editor
Press Win + R and type:
gpedit.msc
Step 2: Navigate to Security Policy
Follow the path:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Security
Step 3: Configure Security Layer Policy
Find and double-click “Require use of specific security layer for remote connections” and set it to “Enabled”.
Step 4: Set Security Layer to RDP
In the ‘Security Layer’ dropdown, select “RDP” and apply the changes.
Solution 6: Switch to Private Network Profile
Step 1: Access Network Settings
Press Win + I to open Settings, then go to “Network & Internet”.
Step 2: Choose Your Network Type
Select either “Ethernet” or “Wi-Fi” depending on your current connection type.
Step 3: Modify Network Profile to Private
Change the network type to “Private”.
After adjusting the network settings, attempt the Remote Desktop Connection again.
Summary
This guide outlined several effective solutions for resolving the “Remote Desktop cannot verify the remote computer’s identity” error. Key steps include ensuring synchronized date and time, using correct IP addresses, verifying DNS settings, and adjusting network profile settings.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve issues related to Remote Desktop Connections. Regularly check your configurations and security settings to maintain a seamless remote access experience.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why am I seeing the identity verification error?
This error commonly occurs due to date/time discrepancies, incorrect DNS settings, or poor network configurations.
How can I check if my DNS is working correctly?
Run the nslookup command in an elevated Command Prompt to verify DNS connectivity.