When trying to connect to your server you may get the following error:

"Remote Desktop can't connect to the remote computer for one of these reasons:

1) Remote access to the server is not enabled

2) The remote computer is turned off

3) The remote computer is not available on the network

Make sure the remote computer is turned on and connected to the network, and that remote access is enabled."

Here are the most common causes and how to check each one.

1. Remote Desktop is not enabled on the server

This is the most frequent case, especially on freshly set up servers. To enable it:

1. Open Settings -> System -> Remote Desktop

2. Toggle Enable Remote Desktop to "on"

3. Confirm when prompted

Alternatively, right-click This PC -> Properties -> Remote Settings, and select Allow remote connections to this computer. 

2. Port 3389 is blocked by the firewall

RDP uses port 3389 by default. If this port is blocked - either in Windows Firewall or in your server's network firewall - the connection will fail. Check both:

• Windows Firewall: Make sure the "Remote Desktop" inbound rule is enabled.
• Network/server firewall: Follow our guide How do I troubleshoot my firewall on Windows?

3. The server is unreachable or offline (VPS/VDS)

If you use a VPS or VDS, you can connect to your server through VNC to check its state and settings without needing RDP. Here's what to do:

1. Connect via VNC - see our guide How to connect to your server using VNC.

2. Check network connectivity - if you're connected via VNC but the server has no network access, see What can I do when I'm connected via VNC and my server is not connected to the network on Windows?.

3. If VNC won't connect either - try disabling and re-enabling VNC access in your Contabo customer panel, then attempt the connection again. 

4. Dedicated server with no KVM

If you use a dedicated server and do not have a KVM setup, you won't be able to access the server's console remotely to diagnose the issue. In this case, please contact support for assistance.