Programs do not start until I log in via RDC on Windows Server 2016

Are you experiencing a problem where programs on your Windows Server 2016 do not start until you log in via Remote Desktop Connection (RDC)? This can be frustrating, but don't worry, we're here to help you fix it!

There could be several reasons why this issue occurs. Let's go through some troubleshooting steps to resolve the problem.

1. Check the Startup Programs

When you log in via RDC, Windows Server 2016 might not start certain programs automatically. To fix this, you need to configure the programs to start when the server boots up. Here's how:

1. Open the Start menu and search for Task Scheduler. Open it.
2. In the Task Scheduler window, click on Create Basic Task in the Actions pane on the right.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to create a basic task. Make sure to select the option to start the program when the computer starts.
4. Repeat the above steps for each program that you want to start automatically.

Once you have configured the startup programs, restart your server and check if the issue is resolved.

2. Check the Remote Desktop Connection Settings

There might be a setting in Remote Desktop Connection that is preventing programs from starting until you log in. Let's check the settings:

1. Open the Start menu and search for Remote Desktop Connection. Open it.
2. Click on the Show Options button to expand the options.
3. Navigate to the Local Resources tab.
4. Under Local devices and resources, make sure that the Disk drives option is checked.
5. Click OK to save the settings.

Now, try logging in via RDC again and check if the programs start automatically.

3. Check the Group Policy Settings

Group Policy settings can also affect the startup of programs on Windows Server 2016. Let's verify the settings:

1. Open the Start menu and search for Group Policy Management. Open it.
2. Expand the Forest and Domains folders to locate your server's domain.
3. Right-click on the domain and select Create a GPO in this domain, and Link it here...
4. Give the new GPO a name and click OK.
5. Right-click on the newly created GPO and select Edit.
6. In the Group Policy Management Editor, navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Logon.
7. Double-click on Always wait for the network at computer startup and logon.
8. Select Enabled and click OK.
9. Close the Group Policy Management Editor.

Restart your server and see if the problem is resolved.

If none of the above solutions work, you may need to consult with your IT administrator or contact Microsoft Support for further assistance.

We hope this article was helpful in resolving the issue of programs not starting until you log in via RDC on Windows Server 2016. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to our tech support team.