Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) remains indispensable for IT professionals, system administrators, and remote employees who depend on secure, efficient access to Windows environments.
However, following the Windows 11 version 24H2 deployment in October 2024, a notable uptick in reports has emerged concerning RDP sessions freezing or hanging, particularly during initial logins or reconnection attempts.
These disruptions can significantly impede productivity and system management. Fortunately, this expertly crafted guide provides precise, actionable solutions derived from the most current data, empowering you to resolve these issues confidently and restore optimal RDP performance.
Why Does RDP Freeze or Hang on Windows 11 24H2?
Knowing the cause can streamline your troubleshooting. The main reasons include network detection bugs in 24H2 that stall sessions, update-related glitches affecting RDP compatibility (especially on reconnects), protocol conflicts between TCP and UDP, resource strain from high CPU or memory usage, and outdated drivers clashing with the new OS. When reconnecting, you might see a stuck “Please Wait” screen, a frozen top bar, or a black screen. Here’s how to fix it.
How to Fix RDP Freezes or Hangs on Windows 11 24H2
Here are five reliable methods to resolve RDP issues on Windows 11 24H2. Follow these steps in order, testing your connection after each one. All solutions are up-to-date and tailored for ease of use.
1. Adjust Network Detection Settings in Group Policy
The most widely reported fix involves tweaking how Windows 11 24H2 detects network quality during RDP sessions. This prevents the system from getting stuck waiting for network feedback.
- Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
- Navigate to:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Connections - Double-click Select network detection on the server.
- Set it to Enabled, then under Options, choose Turn off Connect Time Detect and Continuous Network Detect.
- Click Apply > OK.
- Open Command Prompt (search cmd in the Start menu) and run gpupdate /force to apply the changes without rebooting.
Why it works: Disabling continuous network detection stops Windows from overanalyzing the connection, a common trigger for freezes in 24H2.
2. Switch RDP to TCP-Only Mode
RDP’s dual use of TCP and UDP can cause instability. Forcing it to use TCP alone often stabilizes sessions.
- Open gpedit.msc as above.
- Go to:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Connections - Find and double-click Select RDP Transport Protocol.
- Please set it to Enabled, then choose Use TCP only.
- Apply the changes and run gpupdate /force in Command Prompt.
Pro Tip: If Group Policy isn’t available (e.g., on Windows 11 Home), use the Registry Editor instead:
- Press Win + R, type regedit, and navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows NT\Terminal Services - Right-click, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, name it fClientDisableUDP, and set its value to 1.
3. Optimize RDP Connection Speed Settings
Adjusting the connection speed on the RDP client can bypass freezes caused by automatic quality detection.
- Step 1: Open the Remote Desktop Connection app (mstsc in the Start menu search).
- Step 2: Click Show Options > Experience tab.
- Step 3: Change the dropdown from “Detect connection quality automatically” to LAN (10 Mbps or higher).
- Step 4: Uncheck resource-heavy options like “Visual styles” or “Desktop background” if lag persists.
- Step 5: Click Connect and test the session.
Why it works: Manual settings override buggy auto-detection, ensuring a stable experience.
4. Update Windows and Drivers
Outdated system files or drivers can conflict with 24H2’s RDP updates. Keeping everything current is key.
- Step 1: Go to Settings (Win + I) > Windows Update > Check for updates. Install all available patches (check for fixes beyond KB5051987).
- Step 2: Update graphics and network drivers:
- Right-click the Start button, select Device Manager.
- Expand Display adapters and Network adapters, right-click each device, and choose Update driver > Search automatically.
- Step 3: Restart your PC and test RDP.
Note: If issues persist after the update, consider rolling back to 23H2 via Settings > System > Recovery > Go back (available within 10 days of upgrading).
5. Check Network Stability and Resources
A shaky network or overloaded system can freeze RDP sessions.
- Network Check:
- Run a speed test (e.g., via Speedtest.net) to ensure low latency and sufficient bandwidth (at least 5 Mbps for smooth RDP).
- Switch to a wired Ethernet connection if using Wi-Fi.
- Resource Check:
- Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), and monitor CPU/memory usage during an RDP session.
- Close unnecessary apps on both the client and host machines.
Quick Fix: If reconnecting hangs, log in with a different user account to kick out the stuck session, then retry.
Bonus Tips for a Flawless RDP Experience
- Change the RDP Port: If port conflicts arise (default is 3389), switch to a custom port via Registry Editor
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp > PortNumber
- Use an Alternative Client: Try the Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the Store as a workaround.
- Monitor Microsoft Updates: Check the Windows Health Dashboard for official fixes.
Conclusion
RDP freezes or hangs on Windows 11 24H2 can disrupt your workflow, but with these solutions—from Group Policy tweaks to network optimization—you can restore reliable remote access.
Microsoft hasn’t fully resolved this issue, but the community-driven fixes above have proven effective for most users. Start with the network detection adjustment (Method 1) and work down as needed.
Have you encountered RDP issues on 24H2? Share your experience or solutions in the comments below—we’d love to hear what worked for you! For more Windows troubleshooting guides, subscribe to our newsletter or explore our Windows Tips section.
