Fixed: Remote Desktop Software Keyboard Not Working on PCs & Mobiles

This post primarily introduces why keyboard not working and gives several solutions to fix it. If you’re one of these users who have encountered this issue, this post is here to help.

By Ellie / Updated on May 14, 2024

Remote desktop software remote keyboard not working

The keyboard on the remote computer seems to be malfunctioning, making it impossible for me to input or paste any text. However, I am able to use the mouse without any issues. Additionally, I have found that the keyboard functions properly only when I am connected to the remote computer through an unattended password setup.”

- Question from Reddit

Why remote desktop software keyboard not working?

Remote desktop software allows you to have complete control over a remote device, including its display, audio, and keyboard. However, there are instances where the keyboard might stop functioning or display different characters from the ones you type. There are several reasons why remote desktop software keyboard not working:

Improper installation of the remote desktop software.
Lack of keyboard access on the remote computer.
Failure to meet the minimum requirements to run remote desktop software.
Operating system needing an update.
Incompatibility between keyboard modes.

How to fix remote desktop software keyboard not working on PCs

Thankfully, there are several solutions you can try to fix remote desktop software keyboard not working on Mac, Windows, Linux, etc. Let's explore them below.

Solution 1. Allow access to the keyboard

If the remote desktop software keyboard is not functioning, it could be because someone using the remote computer has disabled access to their keyboard and mouse. You can ask them to enable this access by following these steps:

Step 1. Open remote desktop software and click the three horizontal lines in the top right corner. Select "Settings".

Step 2. Choose "Security" from the left sidebar. Checkmark the option "Control My Device's Keyboard and Mouse".

Solution 2. Request for elevated rights

If you're still unable to use the keyboard even after gaining access, you may need to request elevated rights. Windows has a User's Access Control center that restricts users from making changes without permission from the system administrator. To request elevated rights, follow these steps:

Step 1. In remote desktop software, go to the "Action" menu.

Step 2. Select "Request Elevation" from the options.

Step 3. The remote computer user will receive a prompt to accept the elevation request. Once accepted, you will receive a new session request. Accept the request to operate the remote computer with elevated rights.

Solution 3. Enable unattended access

Some users have found success in resolving keyboard issues by creating sessions via unattended access. This feature allows you to connect to a remote client without sending a session request. To enable unattended access on remote desktop software, follow these steps:

Step 1. Open remote desktop software and click the three horizontal lines. Select "Settings".

Step 2. Go to "Security", and click "Unlock Security Settings".

Step 3. Choose "Set password."

Step 5. Enter your password. Choose "Unattended Access" under Permission Profile. Then click "Apply".

Solution 4. Ensure Full Access during a session invitation

By default, a session invitation sets the profile to "Default," which may restrict certain features like keyboard access. To request full access to the remote computer, follow these steps:

Step 1. Open remote desktop software and go to the "New Session" tab.

Step 2. Click "Invite" and select the specific computer.

Step 3. Expand the "Profile" dropdown menu and choose "Full Access."

Step 4. Press "Invite" to complete the process.

Solution 5. Update remote desktop software

Updating remote desktop software to the latest version may fix keyboard issues. Updates often include bug fixes, ensuring smoother functionality. To update remote desktop software, follow these steps:

Step 1. Go to the remote desktop software Settings.

Step 2. Go to About and check the version to ensure you have the latest.

Step 3. Launch the application and test the keyboard.

Solution 6. Uninstall and install remote desktop software

If updating remote desktop software doesn't help, try uninstalling and reinstalling the software. This cleans up any corrupt files and replaces them with fresh, error-free ones.

Step 1. Open Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features, and right-click remote desktop software > Uninstall.

Step 2. Download remote desktop software from its official website.

Solution 7. Contact the remote desktop software technical team

If none of the above solutions work, it's possible that there's a bug or technical issue with remote desktop software itself. In such cases, it's best to reach out to the technical support team. They will help investigate the issue and provide you with solutions to fix the problem.

How to fix remote desktop software keyboard not working on mobiles

If you encounter keyboard issues while using remote desktop software on your mobile phone, it may be due to the keyboard not being enabled on your device. To fix this, follow these steps. Note that these steps are applicable to both iPhone and Android devices.

Step 1. Launch remote desktop software on your phone.

Step 2. Create a new session with a remote device.

Step 3. When the remote device's screen appears, press the remote desktop software logo and select the keyboard icon.

Step 4. You should now be able to access the remote computer's keyboard.

Bonus tip: Best free remote desktop software alternative

Hope you have get your remote desktop software keyboard working smoothly on PCs or mobiles with the above solutions. If not, it is recommended to try a remote desktop software alternative.

Introducing AnyViewer, a remote desktop program designed for Windows that grants secure and reliable access to any device worldwide, regardless of your location. What sets AnyViewer apart from its counterpart, remote desktop software, is its noteworthy distinction in pricing. While remote desktop software imposes charges for commercial usage, AnyViewer offers its services free of charge for both personal and business purposes. Whether you're assisting family members or providing remote support to clients, AnyViewer ensures you have access to its features without incurring any costs.

Let's explore some of the impressive features that AnyViewer has to offer:

Effortless installation process.
Swift and seamless connection speeds.
Convenient one-click access to unattended remote sessions.
Integrated chat functionality during remote sessions.
Support for file transfers between connected devices.
Quick shortcuts to essential applications such as Task Manager, This PC, CMD, and more.
The capability to control multiple computers simultaneously.
Seamless integration with multi-monitor setups, including support for monitor switching.
Mobile support available for both iOS and Android devices.

Take the next step and experience the benefits of AnyViewer, the free alternative to remote desktop software, by downloading the software. Discover its user-friendly interface and learn how it can revolutionize your remote access capabilities.

Download Freeware Win PCs & Servers

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Step 1. Install and launch AnyViewer on both computers. 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 2. Fill in the signup information and click Sign up to create an AnyViewer account.

Step 3. Then you can see 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 the two computers. Then you can achieve a one-click connection by clicking One-click controlafter going to Device and clicking the computer that you want to access.

Note: If you can upgrade your account to a Professional or Enterprise plan, then you’ll have more rights. You can assign more devices. Also, you can connect to another computer in privacy mode, which means you can black the screen and block the mouse and keyboard of the remote computer.

The bottom line

This post introduces several solutions to fix remote desktop software keyboard not working. Besides, it also introduces an remote desktop software alternative, AnyViewer, in case the problem remains unsolved. AnyViewer emerges as a powerful remote desktop program that offers free access for personal and business use, setting it apart from its paid counterpart, remote desktop software. With its impressive features, seamless installation, and support for various devices, AnyViewer proves to be a reliable and cost-effective choice for remote access needs.