Windows Remote Desktop Client Fails to Connect: Error Code 0x4 on One Computer

Windows Remote Desktop Client Connection Error 0x4 on One Computer

Have you ever encountered an error message while attempting to connect to a remote host on your local area network (LAN) using Windows Remote Desktop? Specifically, error code 0x4? This article will help you understand the issue, provide some context, and offer solutions to resolve the problem.

Understanding Windows Remote Desktop

Windows Remote Desktop is a built-in feature that allows users to remotely access another computer running the Remote Desktop protocol. Users can connect to the remote computer, work on it as if they were physically present, and access resources such as files, applications, and network services.

Error Code 0x4: The Network Path Was Not Found

Error code 0x4, "The network path was not found," usually occurs when the Remote Desktop Client cannot locate or connect to the remote host. This issue might be due to several reasons, including incorrect network settings, firewall restrictions, or problems with the remote computer itself.

Potential Causes and Solutions

1. Network Configuration Issues

Ensure that both computers are connected to the same network. Verify the IP addresses or hostnames of the remote and local computers. If you are using hostnames, ensure that they are correctly resolving to IP addresses via DNS or the hosts file.

2. Firewall Restrictions

Firewalls might block Remote Desktop connections. Check the firewall settings on both the remote and local computers. Allow incoming connections on port 3389 (TCP) for Remote Desktop in both firewalls. If you are using a router, ensure that it forwards Remote Desktop connections to the remote computer.

3. Remote Computer Availability

Ensure that the remote computer is turned on, awake, and connected to the network. If the remote computer is in sleep mode or hibernation, it might not accept incoming Remote Desktop connections.

4. Remote Desktop Services Not Installed or Configured

Confirm that the Remote Desktop Services role is installed and properly configured on the remote computer. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Press Win + X and select "Server Manager"
2. Click "Add roles and features"
3. Follow the wizard, select "Remote Desktop Services" under "Role-based or feature-based installation"
4. Choose the appropriate role services and features, then click "Install"

Additional Troubleshooting Steps

If you still encounter the error after trying the above solutions, consider the following:

• Restart both the remote and local computers
• Use IP addresses instead of hostnames to connect
• Temporarily disable the firewall on both computers
• Check for Windows updates and install them
• Run the Remote Desktop Connection troubleshooter (ms-settings:remotedesktop in the Run dialog)

References

• Microsoft Docs: Remote Desktop Connection Fails with Error Code 0x4
• Microsoft Docs: Install Remote Desktop Services
• Super User: Remote Desktop Connection Fails with Error 0x4

By following the steps and guidelines provided in this article, you should be able to resolve the Windows Remote Desktop Client Connection Error 0x4 on one computer in your LAN. Happy remote connecting!