This comprehensive guide covers every verified method to cleanly reinstall, reset, and repair Remote Desktop Connection on Windows 11 and Windows 10. Method 1: Reinstall via Windows Optional Features
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If SFC reports that it found corrupt files but could not fix all of them, run DISM to repair the underlying system image:
The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool is a more advanced utility that repairs the local Windows image, fixing errors that SFC cannot. reinstall remote desktop connection
Press Windows Key + R , type gpedit.msc , and hit Enter . Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Connections . Ensure Allow users to connect remotely using Remote Desktop Services is set to Enabled . Looking for an Alternative?
# Unregister the Remote Desktop ActiveX control regsvr32 /u mstscax.dll
Microsoft has been promoting the (formerly the Microsoft Remote Desktop client) as a modern alternative to the classic Remote Desktop Connection. This app is available from the Microsoft Store. This comprehensive guide covers every verified method to
(Note: If this fails because the package is fully gone, use: winget install "Microsoft Remote Desktop" )
Windows features two versions of Remote Desktop: the classic desktop application ( mstsc.exe ) and the modern app available through the Microsoft Store. If your classic client is completely broken, switching to or reinstalling the UWP app provides an instant workaround.
Once uninstalled, you can reinstall the app through official Microsoft channels: Press Windows Key + R , type gpedit
Often, what appears to be a broken installation is actually a corrupted system file or dependency. Running the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool alongside the System File Checker (SFC) will repair the underlying mstsc.exe application without modifying your user settings.
When this happens, your first instinct might be to "reinstall" it. But here’s the catch: