Reinstall Remote Desktop Connection -

1. Uninstall the App

To reinstall Remote Desktop Connection (MSTSC) on Windows 11 (version 23H2 or later), you can now treat it as a standard app that can be uninstalled and reinstalled through official Microsoft channels.

Credentials

: Verify you have the correct user permissions under the "Remote" tab in System Properties ( sysdm.cpl ). reinstall remote desktop connection

To reinstall RDC on Windows 7:

  • Run a System File Check (SFC): Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type: sfc /scannow. This fixes underlying corrupt Windows files that might be pretending to be an RDC issue.
  • Update Windows: Go to Settings > Windows Update. Many RDC bugs are squashed in cumulative updates.
  • Check Your Edition: The Remote Desktop client is available on all Windows editions (Home, Pro, Enterprise). The Remote Desktop host (allowing incoming connections) is only on Pro/Enterprise.
  1. Disable RDC: Go to Settings > System > Remote Desktop and toggle the switch to Off.
  2. Uninstall RDC: Open Control Panel, click on Programs and Features, and uninstall Remote Desktop Connection.
  3. Restart the computer: Restart both the local and remote computers.
  4. Re-enable RDC: Go to Settings > System > Remote Desktop and toggle the switch to On.
  5. Configure RDC settings: Configure RDC settings, such as setting up firewall rules and specifying the remote computer's IP address or hostname.

Preventive best practices

  1. Control Panel → Programs and Features → Turn Windows features on or off.
  2. Uncheck Remote Desktop Protocol (or Remote Desktop Services) → OK → restart.
  3. Re-check it → OK → restart.

To reinstall RDC: