How to Resolve Remote Desktop Error Code 0x204 in Windows and macOS

  • RDP error code 0x204 is a remote desktop connection problem that usually occurs when a user tries to connect to a remote Windows computer from macOS, Android, or another operating system, but fails due to driver issues or security restrictions.
  • The problem may also be caused by your firewall (since the process used by Remote Desktop is used by many malicious programs).
  • In some cases, the problem may be. caused by temporary files stored in the Group Containers folder.

 

Troubleshooting remote desktop errors can be a tedious task, but fear not! In this article, we explore the enigmatic error code 0x204 that plagues Windows and MacOS users. Discover effective solutions to resolve this issue and regain seamless remote desktop access without breaking a sweat. So, let’s dive in and conquer this error code together!

Understanding Remote Desktop Error Code 0x204

Remote Desktop Error Code 0x204 can occur when trying to establish a remote desktop connection between devices running Windows or MacOS. This error code indicates a problem with the connection, but it can be resolved using a few simple steps.

First, check your network connection and ensure that you have a stable internet connection. If you are using a VPN, make sure it is properly configured and connected.

Next, check your firewall and security software settings. Sometimes, these settings can block the remote desktop connection. Adjust them accordingly to allow the connection.

If you are using Windows, try using the Microsoft Remote Desktop app for a smoother experience. For Mac users, ensure that your Mac OS is updated to the latest version, such as Big Sur or Mac OS11.

If the error persists, try resetting the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) settings on your computer. You can do this by following these steps:

1. Open the “Run” dialog by pressing the Windows key + R.
2. Type “regedit” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
3. Navigate to the following path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Terminal Server Client
4. Right-click on the “Terminal Server Client” folder and select “Delete” to remove it.
5. Restart your computer and try establishing the remote desktop connection again.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve Remote Desktop Error Code 0x204 and establish a successful remote desktop connection.

Causes of Remote Desktop Error Code 0x204

1. Network connectivity issues: Check your network connection and ensure it is stable. Use the Network Utility tool (on Mac) or troubleshoot your network settings (on Windows) to diagnose any network problems.

2. Firewall or security software: Temporarily disable any firewall or security software that may be blocking the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) connection.

3. VPN connection: If you are using a VPN to connect to your work computer, check that it is properly configured and not causing any conflicts with the RDP connection.

4. System proxy configuration: Verify your system proxy settings and ensure they are properly configured for the Remote Desktop connection.

5. Incorrect login credentials: Double-check your username and password to ensure they are entered correctly. Use the format MyUserName\ before your username if required.

6. Remote Desktop client version: Update your Remote Desktop client to the latest version available to ensure compatibility with the remote connection.

7. Router settings: Check your router’s settings and make sure it is properly configured to allow Remote Desktop connections.

Remember to consult the official Microsoft documentation or seek further assistance if needed.

Solutions for Windows Users

  • Remote Desktop Connection: Learn how to troubleshoot and resolve error code 0x204 when using Remote Desktop Connection on Windows and MacOS.
  • Check Network Connectivity: Ensure that your device has a stable network connection to avoid error code 0x204.
  • Update Windows: Keep your Windows operating system up to date to fix compatibility issues that may cause the error.
  • Check Firewall Settings: Verify that your firewall settings are not blocking the Remote Desktop Connection, preventing error code 0x204.
  • Enable Remote Desktop Access: Enable the Remote Desktop feature on your Windows or MacOS device to establish a connection without encountering the error.
  • Use Remote Desktop Assistant: Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Assistant can diagnose and resolve common issues, including error code 0x204.
    Enable Remote Desktop Access: Enable the Remote Desktop feature on your Windows or MacOS device to establish a connection without encountering the error.
Use Remote Desktop Assistant: Microsoft's Remote Desktop Assistant can diagnose and resolve common issues, including error code 0x204.
  • Check Remote Desktop Services: Ensure that the Remote Desktop Services are running properly on your Windows or MacOS device.
  • Disable Antivirus Software: Temporarily disable antivirus software to check if it is causing the error code 0x204.
  • Configure Router Settings: Adjust router settings, such as port forwarding, to allow Remote Desktop Connection and avoid the error.
  • Restart Devices: Sometimes, a simple restart of your Windows or MacOS device, as well as the remote device, can resolve error code 0x204.
    Configure Router Settings: Adjust router settings, such as port forwarding, to allow Remote Desktop Connection and avoid the error.
Restart Devices: Sometimes, a simple restart of your Windows or MacOS device, as well as the remote device, can resolve error code 0x204.

Solutions for Mac Users

  • Download the latest version of Microsoft Remote Desktop for Mac
  • Check compatibility with your macOS version
    Download the latest version of Microsoft Remote Desktop for Mac
Check compatibility with your macOS version
  • Verify network connectivity to the remote desktop
  • Ensure that the remote desktop is powered on and accessible
  • Disable any VPN or firewall that may be blocking the connection
  • Update your Mac’s operating system to the latest version
  • Restart your Mac and try connecting again
  • Reset the Remote Desktop settings on your Mac
    Restart your Mac and try connecting again
Reset the Remote Desktop settings on your Mac
  • Check if the error code 0x204 is specific to a particular remote desktop
  • Consult the Microsoft Support Community for additional assistance
    Check if the error code 0x204 is specific to a particular remote desktop
Consult the Microsoft Support Community for additional assistance

Enabling Remote Desktop on Windows

To resolve Remote Desktop error code 0x204 in Windows and MacOS, follow these steps:

1. On Windows, go to Start and search for “Remote Desktop Settings.” On MacOS, open System Preferences and click on “Sharing.”

2. Enable Remote Desktop by checking the box that says “Allow remote connections to this computer” on Windows. On MacOS, check the box that says “Remote Login.”

3. Ensure that your PC or Mac is connected to the internet and that you have a stable network connection.

4. If you are using a VPN connection, make sure it is properly set up and functioning correctly.

5. Double-check your firewall settings to ensure that Remote Desktop is not being blocked.

6. On Windows, make sure that you have the correct user credentials. Type “MyUserName” as the username, and enter your password.

7. On MacOS, enter your username and password when prompted.

8. If you still encounter the error message, try restarting your computer and attempting the connection again.

Remember to consult Microsoft’s official documentation or seek further support for specific troubleshooting steps based on your operating system and setup.

Resolving Firewall and Antivirus Issues

If you encounter the Remote Desktop Error Code 0x204 on your Windows or MacOS device, it could be due to firewall or antivirus settings. Follow these steps to resolve the issue:

1. Check your Firewall: Ensure that your firewall is not blocking Remote Desktop connections. Adjust the settings to allow Remote Desktop access.

2. Disable Antivirus: Temporarily disable your antivirus software to see if it is causing the issue. If the error disappears, add an exception for Remote Desktop in your antivirus settings.

3. Verify System Proxy Configuration: Make sure your system proxy configuration is correct. Incorrect settings can interfere with Remote Desktop connections.

4. Restart the Remote Desktop Service: Restarting the Remote Desktop service can often fix the error. Open the Services app, locate the Remote Desktop service, and restart it.

If you still experience the error, consult the official Microsoft support documentation or reach out to their support team for further assistance.

Deleting Temporary Files and Folders

To resolve Remote Desktop Error Code 0x204 in Windows and MacOS, you can try deleting temporary files and folders. These files can sometimes cause issues with the Remote Desktop connection. Here’s how you can do it:

For Windows:
1. Open File Explorer.
2. Navigate to the following path: C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Temp.
3. Select all the files and folders in the Temp folder.
4. Press the Delete key on your keyboard to remove them.

For MacOS:
1. Open Finder.
2. Click on the “Go” menu and select “Go to Folder”.
3. Enter the following path: /Users/YourUsername/Library/Group Containers/UBF8T346G9.Office/Outlook/Outlook 15 Profiles/Main Profile/Caches.
4. Delete all the files and folders in the Caches folder.

By deleting these temporary files and folders, you can often resolve the Remote Desktop Error Code 0x204 and establish a successful connection.

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Mark Ginter is a tech blogger with a passion for all things gadgets and gizmos. A self-proclaimed "geek", Mark has been blogging about technology for over 15 years. His blog, techquack.com, covers a wide range of topics including new product releases, industry news, and tips and tricks for getting the most out of your devices. If you're looking for someone who can keep you up-to-date with all the latest tech news and developments, then be sure to follow him over at Microsoft.