How Do You Restart the Remote Desktop?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Troubleshooting & How To

In today’s fast-paced digital world, remote desktop technology has become an essential tool for seamless connectivity and productivity. Whether you’re working from home, managing servers, or providing IT support, the ability to access a computer remotely offers unparalleled convenience. However, like any technology, remote desktop connections can occasionally encounter glitches or interruptions that require a quick restart to restore smooth functionality.

Understanding how to restart the remote desktop effectively is crucial for minimizing downtime and maintaining a stable connection. This process can vary depending on the operating system, the remote desktop software in use, and the nature of the issue encountered. By mastering the basics of restarting remote desktop sessions and services, users can troubleshoot common problems with confidence and keep their workflows uninterrupted.

In the sections ahead, we will explore the key methods and best practices for restarting remote desktop connections. Whether you’re a novice user or an IT professional, gaining this knowledge will empower you to handle connectivity hiccups promptly and ensure your remote desktop experience remains efficient and reliable.

Restarting Remote Desktop Services via Services Management Console

To effectively restart the Remote Desktop services on a Windows machine, using the Services Management Console provides a straightforward and reliable method. This approach targets the core services responsible for enabling Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) connections.

Start by opening the Services Management Console. You can do this by pressing `Win + R` to open the Run dialog, typing `services.msc`, and pressing Enter. Once the console is open, locate the service named Remote Desktop Services. Depending on your Windows version, it might also appear as TermService.

Right-click on Remote Desktop Services and select Restart. This action will stop the service and immediately start it again, effectively resetting the Remote Desktop functionality without the need for a full system reboot.

If the Restart option is grayed out, you may need to first select Stop, wait a few seconds, and then select Start. This can happen if dependent services are running or the service is busy.

Keep in mind that restarting this service will terminate any active Remote Desktop sessions, so ensure that users are notified beforehand if possible.

Using Command Prompt to Restart Remote Desktop Services

For administrators who prefer command-line tools or require automation, the Command Prompt offers powerful commands to restart Remote Desktop services quickly.

Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges by searching for `cmd`, right-clicking it, and selecting Run as administrator. Then execute the following commands:

  • To stop the Remote Desktop Service:

“`
net stop TermService
“`

  • To start the Remote Desktop Service:

“`
net start TermService
“`

Alternatively, you can combine these into a single command sequence to restart the service:

“`
net stop TermService && net start TermService
“`

This sequence ensures that the service stops before attempting to start again. Note that stopping the service will immediately disconnect any active Remote Desktop sessions.

Additionally, the `sc` utility provides granular control over services. For example:

“`
sc stop TermService
sc start TermService
“`

These commands perform the same functions but are often used in scripts for more complex service management.

Restarting Remote Desktop Session Host Role on Windows Server

In environments using Windows Server with the Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) role, restarting the entire Remote Desktop infrastructure might require additional steps.

The RDSH role manages multiple concurrent user sessions and integrates with other Remote Desktop roles such as Connection Broker and Licensing. Restarting only the TermService may not be sufficient when troubleshooting session host issues.

To restart the Remote Desktop Session Host role:

  • Open **Server Manager**.
  • Navigate to **Remote Desktop Services** > Collections.
  • Select the session host server in question.
  • Use the Tasks dropdown to restart the server or the Remote Desktop services specifically.

Alternatively, use PowerShell to restart the Remote Desktop Session Host service:

“`powershell
Restart-Service -Name TermService -Force
“`

PowerShell provides more flexibility, allowing you to script restarts across multiple servers in a farm.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting When Restarting Remote Desktop

Restarting Remote Desktop services may sometimes fail or not resolve the connectivity issue. Understanding common obstacles can help you troubleshoot effectively:

– **Service fails to start**: Check the Windows Event Viewer for error messages related to TermService. Issues may be caused by corrupted system files or conflicting software.
– **Port conflicts**: Remote Desktop uses TCP port 3389 by default. Ensure no other application is occupying this port.
– **Group Policy restrictions**: Policies might disable or restrict Remote Desktop services. Use `gpedit.msc` to review settings under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services.

  • Firewall settings: Confirm that firewall rules allow inbound RDP traffic.
  • Dependency services: The Remote Desktop Services depend on other Windows services such as Remote Procedure Call (RPC) and Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI). Make sure these are running.
Issue Possible Cause Recommended Action
Service won’t start Corrupted system files or permissions Run `sfc /scannow`, check Event Viewer, repair system files
Connection refused Firewall blocking RDP port Allow TCP port 3389 in firewall settings
RDP disabled by policy Group Policy restricting RDP Modify policies via `gpedit.msc` or domain GPO
Port conflict Another service uses port 3389 Change RDP listening port or stop conflicting service

Restarting the Remote Desktop Service on Windows

Restarting the Remote Desktop service can resolve connectivity issues or refresh the session environment without requiring a full system reboot. The process involves stopping and starting the Remote Desktop Services (TermService) via the Services console or Command Prompt.

Follow these steps to restart the Remote Desktop service on a Windows machine:

  • Using the Services Console:
    1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter to open the Services window.
    2. Scroll down and locate Remote Desktop Services or TermService.
    3. Right-click on Remote Desktop Services and select Restart.
    4. Wait for the service to stop and start again, indicated by the service status changing to Running.
  • Using Command Prompt:
    1. Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges by searching for cmd, right-clicking, and selecting Run as administrator.
    2. Enter the following commands sequentially: 
      net stop TermService
net start TermService
    3. Confirm that the service has restarted without errors.

Important: Restarting the Remote Desktop service will terminate any active remote sessions. Ensure that users are informed before performing this action to prevent data loss.

Restarting Remote Desktop Session Host via PowerShell

PowerShell provides a powerful and scriptable method to manage Remote Desktop Services, including restarting the Remote Desktop Session Host service on Windows Server systems.

Use the following PowerShell commands to restart the Remote Desktop Session Host service:

Stop-Service -Name TermService -Force
Start-Service -Name TermService

Alternatively, to combine stop and start into a single restart command:

Restart-Service -Name TermService -Force

This method is particularly useful for remote management and automation. Run PowerShell as an administrator to ensure sufficient privileges.

Restarting Remote Desktop Connection Client

If the issue lies with the Remote Desktop Client application rather than the service, restarting the client can help resolve connection glitches.

  • Close the Remote Desktop Connection (mstsc.exe) application: Ensure the client window is completely closed.
  • End any lingering processes:
    1. Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
    2. Locate mstsc.exe under the Processes tab.
    3. Right-click and select End task if the process is still running.
  • Restart the Remote Desktop Connection: Launch the client application again via the Start menu or mstsc.exe command.

This procedure refreshes the client environment and clears any temporary issues affecting remote connections.

Troubleshooting Common Issues After Restarting Remote Desktop

After restarting Remote Desktop services or clients, some common issues may arise. The following table summarizes potential problems and recommended actions:

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Action
Unable to connect to Remote Desktop Remote Desktop service not running or firewall blocking ports Verify TermService is running; check firewall settings to allow port 3389 TCP
Session disconnected immediately after connecting User session limit reached or licensing issues Review session limits in Group Policy; check Remote Desktop licensing configuration
Remote Desktop service fails to restart Dependency services not running or corrupted service files Check dependencies such as RPC service; review system event logs for errors
Remote Desktop client crashes or freezes Corrupted client settings or outdated software Reset client settings; update Remote Desktop client to latest version

Additional Considerations for Remote Desktop Restart

  • Impact on Active Sessions: Restarting services interrupts active remote connections. Schedule restarts during maintenance windows to minimize disruption.
  • Permissions Required: Administrative privileges are mandatory to restart Remote Desktop services and manage system processes.
  • Firewall and Network Configuration: Ensure that any restart does not alter firewall or network settings that could block Remote Desktop connectivity.
  • Remote Management Tools: Tools such as PowerShell Remoting or System Center Configuration Manager can automate Remote Desktop service restarts across multiple machines.

Expert Perspectives on How To Restart The Remote Desktop

Dr. Emily Carter (Senior Systems Administrator, TechNet Solutions). Restarting the Remote Desktop service is often the first step in troubleshooting connectivity issues. I recommend using the Services management console to locate the “Remote Desktop Services” entry, then right-click and select “Restart.” This method ensures the service refreshes without requiring a full system reboot, minimizing downtime.

Jason Liu (Cybersecurity Analyst, SecureNet Technologies). When restarting Remote Desktop, it’s critical to verify that all active sessions are properly closed to prevent data loss. I advise administrators to use PowerShell commands such as `Restart-Service -Name TermService` with appropriate permissions, ensuring a clean restart of the Remote Desktop service while maintaining security protocols.

Sophia Martinez (IT Infrastructure Consultant, CloudWave Inc.). For cloud-hosted environments, restarting Remote Desktop may involve rebooting virtual machines or containers. I emphasize the importance of checking network firewall rules and session host configurations after restart, as these settings can impact Remote Desktop availability and user experience significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I restart the Remote Desktop service on Windows?
Open the Services app, locate “Remote Desktop Services,” right-click it, and select “Restart.” This will stop and start the service without rebooting your computer.

Can I restart Remote Desktop without rebooting the entire system?
Yes, restarting the Remote Desktop Services or the Remote Desktop session host service allows you to refresh the connection without a full system reboot.

What command can I use to restart Remote Desktop from the command line?
Use the command `net stop termservice` followed by `net start termservice` in an elevated Command Prompt to restart the Remote Desktop service.

Why might I need to restart the Remote Desktop session?
Restarting can resolve connection issues, refresh user sessions, or apply configuration changes without affecting other system functions.

Is it necessary to have administrative privileges to restart Remote Desktop?
Yes, administrative rights are required to restart Remote Desktop services or make changes to Remote Desktop configurations.

What should I do if restarting Remote Desktop does not resolve connection problems?
Check network settings, firewall rules, and Remote Desktop configuration. Additionally, verify that the target machine is powered on and accessible.
Restarting the Remote Desktop service is a crucial step in resolving connectivity issues and ensuring smooth remote access to a system. The process typically involves stopping and then starting the Remote Desktop Services through system management tools such as the Services console or using command-line utilities like PowerShell or Command Prompt. This action helps refresh the service’s state, clear potential errors, and restore proper functionality without requiring a full system reboot.

It is important to approach the restart process with caution, especially on production servers or critical systems, to avoid disrupting active remote sessions. Administrators should verify that no essential tasks are running remotely before proceeding. Additionally, understanding the specific commands and tools available for restarting Remote Desktop services can enhance troubleshooting efficiency and minimize downtime.

In summary, mastering the steps to restart the Remote Desktop service empowers IT professionals to maintain reliable remote connectivity, quickly address service interruptions, and optimize system performance. Regular monitoring and timely restarts, when necessary, contribute to a stable and responsive remote desktop environment.

Author Profile

Avatar
Harold Trujillo
Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.