How to Configure Network Level Authentication (NLA) for Windows RDP Server

If you’re using a Windows Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) server to work from anywhere, adding Network Level Authentication (NLA) is like putting a bouncer at the door—it checks who’s coming in before they even step inside. In 2025, with remote access more common than ever, NLA boosts security by making sure only authorized users get through. Setting it up is straightforward and worth it for peace of mind. How do you do it? Let’s walk through the steps in a clear, friendly way that anyone can follow.

What’s NLA and Why Use It?

NLA is a security feature for RDP that checks your login credentials—like your username and password—before letting you connect to the server. Without it, anyone can knock on your RDP door, tying up resources even if they don’t get in. With NLA, that door stays shut until they prove they belong. In 2025, it’s a smart move—cyber threats are up, and NLA cuts down on random attacks by keeping the riffraff out from the start.

Step 1: Check Your Windows Version

First, make sure your RDP server supports NLA—it’s built into most Windows versions, like Windows 10, 11, or Server editions from 2016 onward. On your server computer, press Windows + R, type winver, and hit Enter. A box pops up with your version—anything recent works fine. In 2025, if you’re on an older system, NLA might not play nice, so updating could be your first step. It’s like making sure your lock fits the door before adding it.

Step 2: Open System Settings

Now, let’s turn it on. Right-click the Start button, pick “System,” and scroll down to “Remote Desktop” (or search “Remote Desktop Settings” in the taskbar). Flip the “Enable Remote Desktop” switch to On if it’s not already—this lets you connect remotely. You’ll see an option about NLA right there. It might say something like “Require devices to use Network Level Authentication”—that’s your target. This is your control panel for who gets in.

Step 3: Enable NLA

Check the box next to the NLA option—it’s usually unchecked by default. Once ticked, only users with valid credentials on this computer can connect, and they’ll need an RDP client that supports NLA (most do in 2025, like Windows’ built-in app). Click “Apply” or just close the window—Windows saves it automatically. It’s like telling your server, “No ID, no entry,” making it tougher for outsiders to poke around.

Step 4: Test the Connection

Time to see if it works. From another device—like your laptop or a friend’s PC—open the Remote Desktop app (search “Remote Desktop” in Windows). Type your server’s IP address (find it by running ipconfig in Command Prompt on the server), then hit Connect. Enter your username and password—the same ones you’d use to log into the server directly. If NLA’s on, you’ll log in smoothly; if not, you might get an error—double-check that box! In 2025, this quick test keeps you confident.

A Few Tips

Your connecting device needs NLA too—most Windows machines handle it, but older ones might not, so update if needed. Also, keep strong passwords; NLA’s great, but it’s not a cure-all. If you’re on a network with a firewall, ensure port 3389 (RDP’s default) is open—though you can change that separately for extra safety.

Why It’s Worth It

Configuring NLA is a small tweak with big perks—fewer unwanted visitors, a lighter load on your server, and a safer remote setup. In 2025, it’s a must for anyone working from home or managing teams afar. For a secure RDP boost, Cyfuture Cloud offers solutions to keep your remote access locked down and ready.