RPD cannot be connected to an account that is logged in with a Microsoft account

Question

Microsoft Remote Desktop can't connect to a user who logs in with a Microsoft account. While searching for solutions, I noticed some information mentioning that this is because the remote connection cannot connect to accounts that log in using a PIN or Windows Hello.

There used to be a workaround that involved selecting "I forgot my PIN" and choosing to exit in the final step of the PIN reset process. After the screen was locked, you could then log in to the computer using the Microsoft account password. Now, using this method brings up a login webpage and logs you in after cloud verification is complete.

One reply suggested that other users turn off two-factor authentication and try again. Honestly, this solution is stupid.

Screenshots

*** Moved from Windows / Windows 11 / Internet and connectivity ***

Answer 1

Hello,

Thank you for posting in the Microsoft community forum.

May I know if you have recently done a Remote Desktop client version update? Was the Microsoft account able to log in normally?

According to users feedback, when the Windows Hello login option is enabled on the device, Remote Desktop login may fail due to delayed synchronization of Microsoft account credentials.

The picture you added seems to be invalid, you can re-upload the picture in the reply, please be careful to block personal information.

Best regards

Jacen

Answer 2

I went to my account settings on my target machine, which showed my MS account only. I tried to change something, I think the option 'lswitch to local user instead', which brought up the PIN screen to verify permission. I chose 'use another way' which allowed me to enter my MS account password. It succeeded the check and then asked if I was sure about switching to a local account, which I just cancelled. Then I tried RDP into that machine and it succeeded. So yes, it has something to do with the target machine and the MS account not having your pw, which is what we are trying to use to log in with. And once it had a refresh of that, it allowed the rdp to work.

My target machine is a Win10 upgraded from Home to Pro, and my machine I'm remoting from is a Win11 upgraded from Home to Pro.

Answer 3

Hey Nymiro,

Have you considered creating a new local account? Using a current Admin account on yoru machine, go to Control Panel, User Accounts, Manage User Accounts, Add, and be sure to select Administrator. Make sure the Domain for this account is your PC's hostname. Then login to this account, go to windows store or something and login to your MS account. You should then be able to access any resources u need from the MS account while also being able to RDP into the local account.

LMK if that works for you friend! Take care