Windows – Log in local user over RDP

automatic-logonremote desktopwindows

I have a kiosk system which shows information. When I want to change its configuration, I log into it via RDP, which of course logs off the user that is shown on the kiosk monitor.

When I am done editing, I usually reboot the system so that it can log in with the kiosk user automatically, but rebooting takes a lot of time.

Is it possible to end a RDP connection with a command like, "Log me off and reconnect the local user's session"?

In other words, how can I remotely unlock the local logon session I disconnected when logging in via Remote Desktop?

The remote computer runs Windows 7.

Best Answer

I've been unable to find a way to unlock a locked logon session. There are some ideas in this post on StackOverflow, but none I've tried actually work.

My solution has always been to use a 3rd party remote control program to unlock the computer. The remote control software must be of the type that can interact with the Windows console session (e.g. VNC, GoToAssist, LogMeIn Rescue, etc.)

Here are the exact steps:

  1. RDP into the workstation to perform the required maintenance. This of course disconnects and locks the kiosk user account that is logged into the physical computer (a.k.a. via the "console" session).
  2. When done, log out of the RDP session.
  3. Connect to the computer using the 3rd party remote control program. This gives me control of the console session as though I am physically at the computer.
  4. Unlock the kiosk user account, then end the remote control session.

Note: Some remote control programs may automatically lock the current logon session when you end your remote session. Be sure to disable this setting.

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