How to Fix Remote Desktop Error Code 0x204

Remote Desktop is a vital feature for IT professionals, remote workers, and system administrators, allowing them to access computers over a network. However, when it doesn’t work as expected, like when the dreaded error code 0x204 appears, it can halt productivity and frustrate users. Fortunately, this error is relatively common and often fixable with a few methodical steps.

TLDR: Too Long, Didn’t Read

Error code 0x204 in Remote Desktop typically indicates a failure in connecting to the remote device, often due to misconfiguration, firewall restrictions, or outdated credentials. Basic troubleshooting includes verifying Remote Desktop settings, checking firewall and security software, and ensuring the service is running. More advanced solutions may involve editing the registry or tweaking group policies. Following a structured approach will usually resolve the problem quickly.

Understanding Error Code 0x204

The 0x204 error is a generic connection error when attempting to use Remote Desktop, particularly with Microsoft Remote Desktop (often abbreviated as MSRDP or RDP). It usually means “connection failed” without giving many helpful details, which can make troubleshooting more complex. This issue can arise on both Windows and macOS clients trying to reach Windows machines, especially servers.

Common reasons include:

• Remote Desktop service not enabled.
• Network connectivity issues.
• Firewall or antivirus blocking the connection.
• Incorrect IP address or hostname.
• Credential or group policy issues.

Step-by-Step Methods to Fix Remote Desktop Error Code 0x204

1. Verify Remote Desktop is Enabled on the Host Machine

Ensure that Remote Desktop is allowed on the destination machine (the one you’re trying to connect to):

1. Open Settings > System > Remote Desktop.
2. Make sure the toggle for Remote Desktop is set to On.
3. Take note of the name of the PC under “How to connect to this PC”.

If you have multiple users or restrict network traffic, ensure the correct user account is granted remote access permissions.

2. Check Network Connectivity

Confirm that both the host and client devices are on the same network or reachable over VPN. Use the command below in Command Prompt to test connectivity:

ping hostname_or_IP

A failed ping result may indicate network issues or that the host is unreachable due to firewall settings or VPN mismatches.

3. Review Windows Firewall and Security Software

Often, overly strict firewall rules are to blame. To check Windows Firewall settings:

1. Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
2. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
3. Ensure that Remote Desktop is allowed for both Private and Public networks.

It’s also a good idea to temporarily disable third-party antivirus or firewall applications and try the connection again. If it works after disabling, then it’s likely those programs are blocking your RDP session.

4. Verify IP Address and Hostname Accuracy

Ensure that the IP address or hostname you’re using is correct. If you’re relying on hostname, DNS resolution problems could be the culprit. It’s better to use the IP address during troubleshooting, especially when navigating Active Directory or mixed networks.

5. Delete Cached RDP Credentials

Sometimes, saved credentials or session profiles get corrupted on the client side, particularly when connecting with Microsoft Remote Desktop on macOS or Windows. Remove any saved credentials:

• On Windows, go to Credential Manager > Windows Credentials and remove the remote desktop-related entries.
• On macOS, open Microsoft Remote Desktop, go to Preferences, and delete saved workspaces or user credentials.

6. Ensure Remote Desktop Services Are Running

On the host machine, ensure that the right services are running:

• Press Win + R and type services.msc.
• Make sure the following services are started and set to Automatic:
  • Remote Desktop Services
  • Remote Desktop Services UserMode Port Redirector

7. Adjust Group Policy Settings

If you’re in a managed environment (like a domain or enterprise), group policy settings could be limiting Remote Desktop access:

1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services.
3. Check the Remote Desktop Session Host configurations and disable any settings that prevent connection attempts.

8. Try Alternate RDP Ports (Advanced)

By default, RDP uses port 3389. If your connection is blocked or already in use, assign a new port:

1. Open Registry Editor with regedit.
2. Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp
3. Change the value of PortNumber to a different number (e.g., 3390), then restart the machine.

Make sure to update firewall inbound rules to reflect the new port and include it in the RDP client connection: IP:port.

When All Else Fails: Use an Alternative Remote Tool

If you’ve exhausted all troubleshooting steps, and Remote Desktop is still throwing error 0x204, consider using other secure and reliable remote tools such as:

• TeamViewer
• AnyDesk
• Chrome Remote Desktop

These tools offer straightforward setups and generally avoid many of the RDP-specific pitfalls like firewall port requirements and network policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What causes error code 0x204 in Remote Desktop?
  This error typically means Remote Desktop couldn’t establish a connection. It may be due to firewall issues, misconfigured settings, invalid credentials, or software conflicts.
• Can antivirus software block Remote Desktop?
  Yes, some antivirus suites block or interfere with RDP connections. Try disabling them temporarily to identify if that’s the source of the issue.
• Is port forwarding necessary to use Remote Desktop over the internet?
  Yes. If you’re trying to connect over the internet to a remote host, you must forward port 3389 on your router to the internal IP address of the remote machine.
• Can you use RDP with a dynamic IP?
  It’s possible but challenging. Use Dynamic DNS services to map your changing IP to a static domain name for easier connections.
• What should I do on macOS if I get this error?
  Ensure your version of Microsoft Remote Desktop is up to date, remove saved credentials, and verify the remote PC allows connections from any version of Remote Desktop.

By following these steps carefully, the frustrating error 0x204 in Remote Desktop can usually be resolved without advanced system administration skills. Always start with the basics and escalate to more complex solutions only as needed.