Credentials Not Working in Remote Desktop: Troubleshooting and Solutions
Connecting to remote computers via Remote Desktop is a common practice for remote work, technical support, and accessing resources across networks. However, users may occasionally encounter the error message “Your credentials did not work” when attempting to establish a Remote Desktop connection. This issue can be frustrating and hinder productivity. This article delves into the potential causes and provides a comprehensive guide to troubleshooting and resolving this error in Windows 11.
Understanding the Error
The “Your credentials did not work” error in Remote Desktop typically indicates that the credentials used to authenticate the connection are incorrect or invalid. This can occur due to several reasons, including:
• Incorrect username or password: Ensure that the username and password entered are accurate and match the credentials used to log in to the remote computer.
• Changed username: Reinstalling Windows or changing the username on the remote computer can cause this error if the Remote Desktop connection settings have not been updated accordingly.
• Incorrect network profile: If the network profile on the remote computer is set to “Public,” it may block Remote Desktop connections. Changing the network profile to “Private” can resolve this issue.
• Windows security policies: Certain Windows security policies may restrict non-administrator users from logging in to Remote Desktop. Modifying these policies can allow non-admin users to connect.
Troubleshooting and Solutions
To troubleshoot and resolve the “Your credentials did not work” error in Remote Desktop, follow these steps:
1. Verify Credentials
• Ensure that the username and password entered are correct and match the credentials used to log in to the remote computer.
• If the username has been changed, update the Remote Desktop connection settings with the new username.
2. Change Network Profile
• Go to “Network & Internet > Status” on the remote computer.
• Click “Change connection properties” and set the “Network profile” to “Private.”
3. Edit Windows Security Policy
• Open the Local Security Policy window (secpol.msc).
• Navigate to “Local Policies > User Rights Agreement.”
• Double-click “Allow log on through Remote Desktop Services.”
• Add the username of the non-admin user and save the settings.
4. Use Group Policy Editor
• Open the Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc).
• Navigate to “Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Credentials Delegation.”
• Enable the policies “Allow delegating default credentials with NTLM-only server authentication,” “Allow delegating default credentials,” and “Allow delegating saved credentials with NTLM-only server authentication.”
Additional Considerations
• Ensure that the Remote Desktop service is running on the remote computer.
• Check if the remote computer is accessible on the network.
• Disable any third-party security software or firewalls that may interfere with Remote Desktop connections.
• Update the Remote Desktop client and server software to the latest versions.
Conclusion
The “Your credentials did not work” error in Remote Desktop can be caused by various factors, including incorrect credentials, network profile settings, Windows security policies, and software issues. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, users can identify and resolve the underlying cause of the error and successfully establish Remote Desktop connections.
FAQ
What are the common causes of the “Your credentials did not work” error in Remote Desktop?
The common causes include incorrect username or password, changed username on the remote computer, incorrect network profile settings, Windows security policies restricting non-admin users, and outdated Remote Desktop software.
How can I verify my credentials for Remote Desktop?
Ensure that the username and password entered match the credentials used to log in to the remote computer. If the username has been changed, update the Remote Desktop connection settings accordingly.
What is the impact of the network profile setting on Remote Desktop connections?
If the network profile on the remote computer is set to “Public,” it may block Remote Desktop connections. Changing the network profile to “Private” can resolve this issue.
How can I modify Windows security policies to allow non-admin users to connect via Remote Desktop?
Open the Local Security Policy window (secpol.msc), navigate to “Local Policies > User Rights Agreement,” double-click “Allow log on through Remote Desktop Services,” and add the username of the non-admin user.
What additional steps can I take to troubleshoot Remote Desktop connection issues?
Ensure that the Remote Desktop service is running on the remote computer, check network connectivity, disable third-party security software or firewalls, and update the Remote Desktop client and server software to the latest versions.
Can outdated Remote Desktop software cause the “Your credentials did not work” error?
Yes, using outdated Remote Desktop software can lead to various connection issues, including the “Your credentials did not work” error. Updating to the latest software versions is recommended.
What is the significance of enabling the Group Policy settings related to credentials delegation?
Enabling these Group Policy settings allows non-admin users to connect to Remote Desktop sessions by delegating default and saved credentials with NTLM-only server authentication.