Vulnerability scan: Windows Remote Desktop Protocol Weak Encryption Method Allowed

Why does Windows Remote Desktop Protocol Weak Encryption Method Allowed show up?

The Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) serves as a means for the Terminal Service to grant remote users access to desktop-level functionalities. This protocol enables users to log in remotely and engage with a Windows machine. Given that RDP involves the transfer of sensitive information pertaining to both the user and the system, it is crucial to configure it with encryption to ensure session privacy and data integrity.

Nevertheless, it is important to highlight that RDP has the potential to utilize encryption algorithms that are considered insecure, including RC4 40-bit and RC4 56-bit. These encryption methods may not offer the desired level of security, potentially exposing the system to vulnerabilities.

What’s the impact of Windows Remote Desktop Protocol Weak Encryption Method Allowed?

In the scenario where an attacker gains access to the network traffic containing RDP sessions utilizing weak encryption methods, there exists a potential risk. The attacker may attempt to employ brute force techniques to deduce the encryption parameters and subsequently compromise the privacy of the RDP session. This underscores the importance of implementing robust encryption methods to safeguard against such malicious activities and preserve the confidentiality of RDP sessions.

How to fix Windows Remote Desktop Protocol Weak Encryption Method Allowed

Here is the Windows Remote Desktop Protocol Weak Encryption Method Allowed fix.

To address the Windows Remote Desktop Protocol Weak Encryption Method Allowed issue on a Windows Server 2012 R2 that is not part of a Remote Desktop Services (RDS) collection, you can follow the steps outlined below:

Step 1. Launch an administrator Command Prompt.

Step 2. Execute the following commands:

• wmic /namespace:\\root\CIMV2\TerminalServices PATH Win32_TSGeneralSetting WHERE TerminalName="RDP-Tcp" CALL SetEncryptionLevel 3
• wmic /namespace:\\root\CIMV2\TerminalServices PATH Win32_TSGeneralSetting WHERE TerminalName="RDP-Tcp" CALL SetSecurityLayer 2

Step 3. These commands will set the Encryption Level to High and the Security Layer to SSL, ensuring stronger encryption for your RDP sessions.

For servers that are part of an RDS collection, the steps are different:

Step 1. To initiate the process, kindly click on the "Start" button positioned at the bottom-left corner of your screen. From the expanded menu, locate and click on Server Manager.

Step 2. In Server Manager, click on Remote Desktop Services.

Step 3. Navigate to Collections > YourCollection (replace "YourCollection" with the name of your specific remote session) > Tasks > Edit Properties.

Step 4. Modify the Security Layer setting to use the strongest SSL option available.

Best recommended safe Remote Desktop alternative for Windows Server

If you're seeking a secure alternative to Remote Desktop for Windows Server, consider trying AnyViewer. AnyViewer is a professional remote desktop software designed specifically for Windows, offering a free solution that is fully compatible with various Windows Server versions, including 2022, 2019, 2016, and 2012 R2.

AnyViewer prioritizes the protection of sensitive information during remote sessions by employing robust security measures, including Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) encryption, alongside other industry-standard security practices

Furthermore, AnyViewer boasts several advantages over Remote Desktop, including:

• Easy setup: AnyViewer is renowned for its user-friendly interface and straightforward setup process. It eliminates the need for complex network configurations or firewall modifications, making it particularly accessible to non-technical users. On the other hand, Remote Desktop typically necessitates network and firewall adjustments to establish connections.
• Accessibility beyond the local network: AnyViewer permits remote access and control of devices over the internet, even when they are situated behind firewalls or NAT routers. This feature simplifies remote support scenarios, enabling users to connect to their computers from anywhere in the world. In contrast, Remote Desktop, by default, is limited to local network connections, requiring additional configuration for remote PC control over the internet.
• Additional features: AnyViewer offers a wide range of supplementary features that enhance the remote access experience. These include convenient file transfer capabilities, integrated chat functionality, and the ability to reboot and reconnect to a remote computer. While Remote Desktop provides basic remote control features, it lacks some of the advanced functionalities offered by AnyViewer.

Step 1. Start AnyViewer on the host computer, click Sign up to create a new account, and log in.

Step 2. Start AnyViewer on the client computer, and log in to the same account you just registered.

Step 3. Go to the Device section, select the target computer and click One-click control.

Notes:✎... It is recommended to upgrade to the cost-effective Professional or Enterprise plan to enjoy the following rights:

Assign up to 100 devices for unattended access.

Establish more concurrent sessions.

Access in privacy mode to well-enough protect data and privacy.

Start a connection with high-image quality.

The bottom line

This post provides a comprehensive guide on resolving the Windows Remote Desktop Protocol Weak Encryption Method Allowed on Windows Server 2012 R2 and other systems. By addressing this concern, you can enhance the security of your remote desktop connections. To ensure a secure and reliable remote desktop experience, it is advisable to consider adopting AnyViewer as a viable alternative. AnyViewer offers a cost-effective and trustworthy solution for remote desktop access, safeguarding your sensitive data, and maintaining a high level of confidentiality during remote sessions.