{"id":14119,"date":"2025-01-09T02:44:59","date_gmt":"2025-01-09T08:44:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/?p=14119"},"modified":"2026-03-31T00:26:57","modified_gmt":"2026-03-31T06:26:57","slug":"resolving-the-remote-desktop-connection-an-internal-error-has-occurred-error","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/resolving-the-remote-desktop-connection-an-internal-error-has-occurred-error\/","title":{"rendered":"Fix RDP \u201cAn Internal Error Has Occurred\u201d: Causes &amp; Solutions Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>The &#8220;An Internal Error Has Occurred&#8221; message is one of the most common errors encountered by users trying to connect to a remote server using the <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Remote_Desktop_Protocol\" title=\"\">Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)<\/a>. While the error doesn\u2019t provide much information about the cause, it can be frustrating when attempting to manage a remote system. Fortunately, there are several effective solutions to resolve this issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Causes of the Error<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. Network or Connectivity Issues: <\/strong>Temporary issues with your local or remote network can interrupt the RDP connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. Incorrect RDP Configuration: <\/strong>Misconfigured RDP settings on the client or server can trigger this error.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Corrupt or Outdated Certificates: <\/strong>RDP connections rely on certificates for secure communication. Expired or corrupted certificates may cause the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4. Firewall or Security Software: <\/strong>Overly aggressive firewall or antivirus settings can block RDP connections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5. Group Policy Misconfigurations: <\/strong>Certain Group Policy settings can interfere with RDP connections, particularly encryption settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>6. Outdated Windows Updates:<\/strong> Missing updates or system bugs can also cause this error.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Methods to Resolve the Error<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. Restart the Remote Desktop Service<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sometimes, restarting the RDP service can resolve temporary glitches:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Open the Run dialog by pressing <strong>Win + R<\/strong> and enter <strong>services.msc<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Identify the service labeled <strong>Remote Desktop Services<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Right-click the service and select <strong>Restart<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Retry connecting to the remote system.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. Check and Restart the Remote Machine<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If restarting the Remote Desktop Services doesn\u2019t help, restart the remote system itself. Temporary issues on the remote server can cause connection errors.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Disable Network Level Authentication (NLA)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Network Level Authentication (NLA) is a security feature for RDP connections, but in some cases, it can cause connection errors. Try disabling it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>On the remote machine, open System Properties (press <strong>Win + Pause\/Break<\/strong>, then click<strong> Advanced System Settings<\/strong>).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Go to the <strong>Remote<\/strong> tab.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In the Remote Desktop settings, deselect the option <strong>Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication <\/strong>(recommended).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Click <strong>Apply<\/strong> and <strong>OK<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Retry the RDP connection.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4. Modify Group Policy Settings<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Incorrect or conflicting Group Policy settings can trigger the error. Adjust these settings to fix the issue:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>1.Launch the Group Policy Editor by pressing <strong>Win + R<\/strong>, typing<strong> gpedit.msc<\/strong>, and pressing Enter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2.Navigate to the following path:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Computer Configuration<\/strong> &gt; <strong>Administrative Templates<\/strong> &gt; <strong>Windows Components<\/strong> &gt; <strong>Remote Desktop Services<\/strong> &gt; <strong>Remote Desktop Session Host<\/strong> &gt; <strong>Security<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>3.Access the policy <strong>Require use of specific security layer for remote (RDP) connections<\/strong> by double-clicking it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>4.Select <strong>Enabled<\/strong>, and in the dropdown, choose <strong>RDP.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>5.Click <strong>Apply<\/strong> and <strong>OK<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>6.Ensure the following policy is disabled:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Review the settings related to FIPS-compliant algorithms for encryption, hashing, and signing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To disable it, Navigate to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In the Group Policy Editor, go to:<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Computer Configuration<\/strong> &gt;<strong> Windows Settings <\/strong>&gt;<strong> Security Settings <\/strong>&gt; <strong>Local Policies <\/strong>&gt;<strong> Security Options<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Look for the policy <strong>System cryptography<\/strong>: Use <strong>FIPS-compliant algorithms<\/strong> and adjust its configuration if necessary.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>7.Restart the machine after applying the changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5. Clear the RDP Cache on the Client Machine<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Corrupted cache files can cause issues with RDP connections. Clearing the RDP cache can resolve the error:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>1.Press <strong>Win + R<\/strong>, type <strong>%localappdata%\\Microsoft\\Terminal Server Client\\Cache<\/strong>, and press Enter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2.Clear the contents of the designated folder associated with cached files.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>3.Try reconnecting to the remote system.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>6. Check the Remote Desktop Certificate<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>RDP relies on certificates for secure communication. Expired or corrupted certificates can cause this error:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>1.Open the Remote Desktop Configuration Manager using the command <strong>tsconfig.msc<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2.Under the <strong>Connections<\/strong> tab, right-click the RDP connection and access its <strong>Properties<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>3.Check the certificate and renew it if necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>7. Update Windows on Both Machines<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Outdated Windows updates may contain bugs or security issues that cause RDP errors. Ensure both the client and server machines are up-to-date:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>1.Open <strong>Settings<\/strong> <strong>(Win + I)<\/strong> on both machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2.Access <strong>Windows Update<\/strong> under <strong>Update &amp; Security<\/strong> to check for updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>3.Install any updates that may be pending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>4.Restart both machines after updating and try reconnecting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>8. Adjust Firewall or Antivirus Settings<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Verify if firewalls or antivirus software might be interfering with the RDP connection:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus and check if the connection works.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If it works, create an exception for the RDP port (default: 3389) in the firewall.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>To add an exception in Windows Firewall:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>1.Open the <strong>Control Panel<\/strong>, then navigate to <strong>System and Security<\/strong> &gt;<strong> Windows Defender Firewall <\/strong>to examine the settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2.Click <strong>Advanced Settings<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>3.Select <strong>Inbound Rules<\/strong>, and find or create a rule for <strong>Port 3389<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>4.Ensure the rule is enabled and set to <strong>Allow the connection<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>9. Use a Static IP Address<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the remote server has a dynamic IP address, it may change unexpectedly, causing connection errors. Assigning a static IP address to the server ensures stable RDP connectivity.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>10. Test with a Different User Account<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Create a new user account on the remote machine and test the RDP connection. Test with a new user account to determine if the issue is linked to the existing user profile. Recreate the user profile if necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>11. Check the Event Viewer for Detailed Logs<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Windows Event Viewer provides detailed logs about connection errors. Use this tool to identify specific issues:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>1.Access the Event Viewer by pressing <strong>Win + X<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2.Navigate to <strong>Windows Logs \u2192 System<\/strong> or<strong> Windows Logs \u2192 Application<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>3.Look for errors related to Remote Desktop Services or RDP.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>4.Analyze the error logs for further insight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Preventing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/resolving-rdp-hang-and-connection-drop-issues-on-vps-or-dedicated-servers\/\" title=\"\">RDP<\/a> Errors in the Future<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some tips to prevent RDP errors like this one:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Regularly Update Your Systems:<\/strong> Ensure all client and server systems have the latest updates.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Monitor Server Resources:<\/strong> Regularly check CPU, memory, and network usage to avoid performance bottlenecks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Optimize Group Policy Settings:<\/strong> Use best practices for RDP-related Group Policy settings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use Reliable Networks:<\/strong> Ensure both client and server machines are on stable, high-speed networks.<br><br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>The &#8220;An Internal Error Has Occurred&#8221; message in Remote Desktop Connection can be frustrating, but it is usually caused by misconfigurations, network issues, or system limitations. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this blog, you can identify the root cause and resolve the error effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the issue persists after trying all the solutions, it may be time to consult your network administrator or a Windows support professional for further assistance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-center has-white-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Partner with <strong>SupportPRO<\/strong> for 24\/7 proactive cloud support that keeps your business secure, scalable, and ahead of the curve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--HubSpot Call-to-Action Code --><span class=\"hs-cta-wrapper\" id=\"hs-cta-wrapper-3350a795-db50-482f-9911-301930d1b1be\"><span class=\"hs-cta-node hs-cta-3350a795-db50-482f-9911-301930d1b1be\" id=\"hs-cta-3350a795-db50-482f-9911-301930d1b1be\"><!--[if lte IE 8]><div id=\"hs-cta-ie-element\"><\/div><![endif]--><a href=\"https:\/\/cta-redirect.hubspot.com\/cta\/redirect\/2725694\/3350a795-db50-482f-9911-301930d1b1be\" ><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"hs-cta-img\" id=\"hs-cta-img-3350a795-db50-482f-9911-301930d1b1be\" style=\"border-width:0px;\" src=\"https:\/\/no-cache.hubspot.com\/cta\/default\/2725694\/3350a795-db50-482f-9911-301930d1b1be.png\"  alt=\"Contact Us today!\"\/><\/a><\/span><script charset=\"utf-8\" src=\"https:\/\/js.hscta.net\/cta\/current.js\"><\/script><script type=\"text\/javascript\"> hbspt.cta.load(2725694, '3350a795-db50-482f-9911-301930d1b1be', {\"useNewLoader\":\"true\",\"region\":\"na1\"}); <\/script><\/span><!-- end HubSpot Call-to-Action Code -->\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"904\" height=\"931\" src=\"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Free-server-checkup.png\" alt=\"guy server checkup\" class=\"wp-image-12943 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Free-server-checkup.png 904w, https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Free-server-checkup-291x300.png 291w, https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Free-server-checkup-768x791.png 768w, https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Free-server-checkup-585x602.png 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 904px) 100vw, 904px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The &#8220;An Internal Error Has Occurred&#8221; message is one of the most common errors encountered by users trying to connect to a remote server using the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP).&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":34,"featured_media":14120,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1,181,68,170,15],"tags":[20,106],"class_list":["post-14119","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-miscellaneous","category-server-checkup","category-server-monitoring","category-server-support","category-windows-server","tag-security","tag-server"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14119","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/34"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14119"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14119\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16011,"href":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14119\/revisions\/16011"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/14120"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14119"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14119"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.supportpro.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14119"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}