How to Troubleshoot RDP Session Timeout

RDP session timeout

Are your Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) sessions constantly disconnecting or asking you to re-enter your password after just a few minutes? You’re not alone. RDP session timeout is a common issue faced by Windows and Windows Server users. Whether you're working on critical tasks or managing systems remotely, these timeouts can be incredibly frustrating.

This article walks you through step-by-step methods to troubleshoot RDP session timeout issues on Windows 10 and Windows Server 2016. Plus, we’ll introduce a reliable alternative—AnyViewer—to keep your sessions stable and always connected.

How to troubleshoot RDP session timeout [2 methods]

If your RDP session keeps disconnecting or timing out, you need to adjust session time limit settings on the host machine. Here's how to do it:

Method 1. Configure Group Policy settings

Step 1. Press Win + R to invoke the Run dialog box. Type in “gpedit.msc” and hit OK to open Registry Editor.

Step 2. Navigate here: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Session Time Limits. Find the following three settings on the right pane:

• Set time limit for disconnected sessions
• Set time limit for active but idle Remote Desktop Services session
• Set time limit for active Remote Desktop Services session

Step 3. Click Set time limit for disconnected sessions, set it to Enabled and then select Never.

Step 4. Click Set time limit for active but idle Remote Desktop Services session, set it to Enabled and then select Never.

Step 5. Click Set time limit for active Remote Desktop Services session, set it to Enabled and then select Never.

Method 2. Use Server Manager (For Windows Server 2016)

If you’re working with Windows Server 2016, Server Manager offers another way to configure session timeouts.

 Step 1. Click the Windows icon and then open Server Manager.

Step 2. Under Dashboard, click Remote Desktop Services.

Step 3. Navigate here: Collections > YourCollection > Tasks > Edit Properties. (Replace YourCollection with your remote session.)

Step 4. Click Session, set all the following three options to Never:

• End a disconnected session
• Active session limit
• Idle session limit

  

Tired of RDP disconnections? Try AnyViewer instead

If you're fed up with constant RDP session timeouts, it's time to switch to a more reliable and user-friendly solution—AnyViewer. Designed for both personal and professional use, AnyViewer offers uninterrupted, secure, and high-performance remote access across different devices.

Why choose AnyViewer over traditional RDP?

Unlike Remote Desktop Protocol, which is often limited by network configurations and session policies, AnyViewer removes the complexity and delivers a seamless experience. Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Always-On Remote Access: AnyViewer ensures your sessions remain live and connected for as long as you need—no auto-disconnects, no session timeouts. Whether you're troubleshooting, transferring files, or managing a server, you stay in control the entire time.
• Easy to Use – No Network Configuration Required: Forget about setting up port forwarding, VPNs, or dealing with firewall restrictions. AnyViewer works right out of the box, even across different networks and NAT environments. Just install, sign in, and connect.
• Secure and Encrypted Connections: Security is a top priority. AnyViewer uses robust end-to-end encryption to ensure that all data transmitted between devices is protected from interception, making it a safe alternative for remote work and IT support.
• Unattended Access: Once a device is assigned to your account, you can access it anytime without needing someone on the other end to accept the session. Perfect for remote server management, home-office access, or helping a family member troubleshoot.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: AnyViewer supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows 7 through Windows 11, Windows Server editions, and macOS. It also offers mobile apps for iOS and Android, allowing you to control a Windows or Mac computer directly from your phone or tablet.
• Multi-Device Management: You can assign multiple devices under one account, enabling one-click access to all your remote computers. This is particularly useful for IT admins and businesses with distributed systems.
• Lightweight & Stable Performance: Built with performance in mind, AnyViewer delivers low-latency connections even over average internet speeds. The software runs efficiently in the background without hogging system resources.
• Free to Use-Upgrade When Needed: The free version of AnyViewer already provides robust features for most users. However, if you need advanced control, business tools, or priority support, affordable Professional or Enterprise plans are available.

How to set up and use AnyViewer

Step 1. Download, install, and launch AnyViewer on both Windows Server 2016 and Windows 10.

Step 2. On Windows Server 2016, go to Log in, and then click Sign up. (If you already have signed up on its official website, you can log in directly)

Step 3. Then you can see that you successfully logged in to AnyViewer. Your device will automatically be assigned to the account you've logged in to.

Step 4. Log in to the same AnyViewer account on Windows 10, and then you can achieve a direct connection by clicking One-click control.

Conclusion

If RDP session timeout is driving you crazy, you can try to use the methods we mentioned in this post to configure Remote Desktop time limits. Or, you could also use another free remote desktop software AnyViewer, which can provide you with fast, stable, and long-lasting remote connections.