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How to Send Ctrl Alt Delete in Remote Desktop in Quick Ways?

Highlights

  • Ctrl+Alt+Delete doesn’t work directly in Remote Desktop because the command is captured by your local machine, not the remote one.
  • There are different methods, such as using the On-screen shortcut or via the On-screen keyboard. 

When you use Remote Desktop (RDP) to access a Windows computer remotely, performing certain keyboard shortcuts can be tricky, especially the Ctrl + Alt + Delete command. If you try to press Ctrl + Alt + Delete during a Remote Desktop session, the command is executed on your local machine, not the remote system. 

So, how can you send Ctrl+Alt+Delete to your remote desktop?

In this detailed article, we provide different methods with step-by-step instructions on how to send Ctrl+Alt+Delete in Remote Desktop.

Also Read: How to Create a User in RDP for Windows Server?

Why does Ctrl + Alt + Delete not Work Normally in RDP?

When you are connected to a remote desktop session, your local machine still has control over certain system-level shortcuts. This is a security feature built into Windows, known as the Secure Attention Sequence (SAS), that prevents malicious software from intercepting login credentials or other secure actions.

Common Use Cases for Ctrl + Alt + Delete in RDP

Action

Use Case

Lock the computer

When stepping away from the remote PC

Change the password

For security or compliance reasons

Open Task Manager

Troubleshoot performance issues

Log off or switch users

Manage sessions on shared systems

Also Read: How to Change Password on Remote Desktop?


Why Apache Is A Popular Choice?

➢ Method 1: Use the On-Screen Shortcut

➔ Connect to your remote computer using Remote Desktop Connection. 

➔ Once connected, press ‘Ctrl+Alt+End’ (This is the RDP equivalent of Ctrl + Alt + Delete).

A menu will appear on the remote machine with these options:

  • Lock
  • Switch user
  • Sign out
  • Task Manager
  • Change a password
*Note: Ctrl+Alt+End only works inside the RDP session window. If you are not in full screen, make sure to click inside the RDP window first.

Also Read: How to Fix the Incorrect Password Issue on RDP?

Method 2: On Laptops or Smaller Keyboards

Laptops and compact keyboards often lack a dedicated ‘End’ key or require using a Function (Fn) key to access it. This makes sending Ctrl+Alt+End in Remote Desktop a bit tricky, but still possible.

  •  Connect to your remote PC using Remote Desktop.
  •  Press the following combination ‘Ctrl+Alt+Fn+Delete’
  •  This will open the Windows Security screen on the remote machine.

Also Read: A Guide to Fix RDP Error: An Internal Error has Occurred

Method 3: Use the On-Screen Keyboard

The On-Screen Keyboard can also help you to send Ctrl+Alt+Del in RDP. 

Follow these steps for this:

  •  Inside the Remote Desktop session, press ‘Win+R’ to open Run.
  •  Type ‘osk’ and press Enter.
  •  With this, the On-Screen Keyboard will open.
  •  In that, you have to press Ctrl+Alt+Delete on the on-screen keyboard.

Once done, the secure screen will appear.

Also Read: How to restart the RDP without rebooting the Windows server?

Troubleshooting Tips

  •  If it’s still not working? Ensure that your RDP is in full-screen mode.
  •  If you are using multiple nested RDP sessions (remote within remote), you have to use Ctrl + Alt + End on the innermost session.

Also Read: How to Fix Remote Desktop Connection Has Stopped Working?

Conclusion

Sending Ctrl + Alt + Delete in a Remote Desktop session may seem tricky at first, but it’s easy once you know the right method. The alternative commands, like Ctrl+Alt+End or the On-Screen Keyboard, get the job done securely and efficiently.

This command is crucial for managing sessions, securing access, and resolving issues remotely, so keep this guide handy whenever you work with Remote Desktop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use Ctrl + Alt + Delete in nested RDP sessions, & How?

Yes, you can use this in nested RDP sessions. For this, you need to press Ctrl+Alt+End multiple times, or use the On-Screen Keyboard inside the deepest session.

2. Can you disable Ctrl + Alt + Delete in RDP?

By default, it’s a secure attention sequence, but in some enterprise environments, administrators can configure access policies. You need to consult your IT administrator or review your group policies.

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