CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005)TroubleshootingMedium
A server administrator is trying to establish a remote desktop connection to a Windows server, but the connection repeatedly fails with an error indicating that the remote desktop service is unavailable. The server is powered on and accessible via ping. Which of the following is the MOST probable cause?
- AThe server's network adapter is faulty.
- BThe server's IP address has changed.
- CA physical RAM module has failed.
- DThe Remote Desktop Services (RDS) role is not installed or configured.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. The Remote Desktop Services (RDS) role is not installed or configured.
If the server is pingable, basic network connectivity is present. An error specifically stating the 'remote desktop service is unavailable' strongly suggests that the service itself is either not running, not properly configured, or the Remote Desktop Services role might not even be installed on the server. This is a common issue on new server builds or systems where RDP was intentionally disabled.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A faulty network adapter would prevent ping and all network access.
- B. If the IP address changed, pinging the old address would fail, and the new address would likely connect (assuming RDP is enabled).
- C. A failed RAM module would likely cause system instability, crashes, or boot failures, not specifically an RDP service unavailability error while the server is otherwise pingable.
Remote Desktop Service Unavailable
An error encountered when attempting to connect via RDP, indicating that the target server's Remote Desktop service is not running, is disabled, or not installed.
- Implies network connectivity to the server exists.
- Requires the 'Remote Desktop Services' role/feature to be installed.
- The 'Remote Desktop Services' service must be running and configured.
Memory trick: RDP no show? Service down, or config's a no go!