Alex Ruben
How to Fix “The Number of Connections to This Computer is Limited” Issue in Windows 11 and 10
If you’re encountering the message “The number of connections to this computer is limited” in Windows 11 or Windows 10, you’re not alone. This issue often arises from network settings, restrictions on remote sessions, or specific system policies. Fortunately, this guide will walk you through a series of steps to adjust the connection limits and enable more remote sessions on your computer smoothly. Not only will this help you regain remote access but also enhance your overall system usability when it comes to connecting from different devices or users.
Step 1: Access the System Properties
Begin by accessing the System Properties window. This can be done by right-clicking the This PC icon on your desktop or in Windows Explorer and selecting Properties. In the System window, click on Remote settings located on the left sidebar. This section handles the remote connections settings for your PC. Ensure you are logged in as an administrator to make these changes.
Step 2: Adjust Remote Desktop Settings
In the Remote tab, you’ll see options for allowing remote connections to this computer. Make sure the option Allow remote connections to this computer is selected. It’s important to consider the Network Level Authentication option as well. Keeping this enabled enhances security but may restrict access if the other devices don’t support it. After making changes, click OK to save them.
Step 3: Modify Group Policy Editor Settings
If you are still facing limitations, the next step is to tweak the settings in the Group Policy Editor. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Local Policies > User Rights Assignment. Look for the policy Limit number of connections and double-click it. Modify the setting to allow for more connections as per your requirements, ensuring it does not exceed the maximum allowed by your Windows version.
Step 4: Check Registry Editor Settings
Another vital adjustment can be performed via the Registry Editor. To open it, press Windows Key + R, type regedit, and press Enter. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server. Here, find the DWORD value named fSingleSessionPerUser. If it is set to 1, double-click and set it to 0 to allow multiple sessions for the same user.
Step 5: Update Network Configurations
Network settings can also impose restrictions on remote connections. Ensure your network profile is set to Private, as Public profiles often restrict remote access. To check this, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status and select the active network connection. Change it to Private if it’s set to Public.
Step 6: Restart Your Computer
After making all the necessary adjustments, restart your computer to apply the changes. This step is crucial as many settings only take effect after a full system reboot.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
When troubleshooting remote connection issues, keep these tips in mind:
- Always ensure your system is updated to the latest version of Windows.
- Check firewall settings to ensure they are not blocking remote connections.
- Verify that your remote software or service is correctly configured.
- If using a VPN, confirm it is properly set up and is not causing conflicts.
Common pitfalls include incorrectly adjusting the Registry settings, which can lead to system instability. Always back up the Registry before making changes. Additionally, make sure you log in as an administrator to have full permissions when altering system settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the message “The number of connections to this computer is limited” mean?
This message indicates that Windows has a restriction on the maximum number of simultaneous remote connections allowed, typically set by default for certain Windows editions.
Can I increase the connection limit on all versions of Windows?
No, the ability to increase the connection limit is restricted based on the version of Windows you are running. Higher editions, like Windows Professional and Enterprise, support more connections compared to Windows Home editions.
Is it safe to alter Registry Editor values?
Yes, it is safe if you follow proper procedures. Always create a backup before making any changes, as improper adjustments can result in system errors.
