Windows

How to Fix the CredentialUIBroker.exe Remote Desktop Error in Windows

Learn how to troubleshoot and resolve the frustrating CredentialUIBroker.exe error that prevents Remote Desktop connections on Windows systems.

By Shivamm 2 min read
How to Fix the CredentialUIBroker.exe Remote Desktop Error in Windows

Remote Desktop connections in Windows can sometimes fail with a cryptic CredentialUIBroker.exe error, leaving users unable to access their systems remotely. This issue typically manifests as error code 0xc000027b and can occur on both Windows Server and non-server operating systems. Let’s explore what causes this error and how to fix it.

What is the CredentialUIBroker.exe Remote Desktop Error?

CredentialUIBroker.exe, also known as the Credential Manager UI Host, is a critical Windows component responsible for managing and securely storing user credentials. When this process encounters issues, it can disrupt Remote Desktop functionality, resulting in error messages and failed connections.

Common causes of the CredentialUIBroker.exe error include:

  • Corrupted system files related to credential management
  • Malware infections that tamper with system processes
  • Outdated or conflicting device drivers
  • Incomplete Windows updates or installations

How to Fix the CredentialUIBroker.exe Remote Desktop Error

Let’s go through several methods to resolve this issue, starting with the most effective solutions.

Method 1: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Step 1: Open Command Prompt as an administrator by right-clicking the Start button and selecting “Windows Terminal (Admin)” or “Command Prompt (Admin)”.

Step 2: Run the System File Checker by typing the following command and pressing Enter:

sfc /scannow

Step 3: Wait for the scan to complete. If SFC finds and repairs issues, restart your computer.

Step 4: If the problem persists, run the following DISM commands in sequence:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Step 5: Restart your computer after DISM completes and try connecting via Remote Desktop again.

Method 2: Update Windows, Device Drivers, and RDP Software

Step 1: Open Windows Settings by pressing Windows key + I.

Step 2: Navigate to “Windows Update” and click “Check for updates”. Install any available updates.

Step 3: Update your device drivers, especially graphics drivers, through Device Manager or the manufacturer’s website.

Step 4: Ensure your Remote Desktop software is up-to-date. For the built-in Windows Remote Desktop, this is handled through Windows Update.

Method 3: Replace the CredentialUIBroker.exe File

Step 1: Obtain a fresh copy of CredentialUIBroker.exe from a trusted source or another healthy Windows system with the same version and build number.

Step 2: Navigate to C:\Windows\System32 in File Explorer.

Step 3: Rename the existing CredentialUIBroker.exe to CredentialUIBroker.exe.old.

Step 4: Copy the new CredentialUIBroker.exe into the folder.

Step 5: Restart your computer and test the Remote Desktop connection.

Method 4: Remove Saved Credentials

Step 1: Open the Control Panel and navigate to “Credential Manager”.

Step 2: Under “Windows Credentials”, look for any saved Remote Desktop credentials.

Step 3: Remove any saved Remote Desktop credentials by clicking on them and selecting “Remove”.

Step 4: Try connecting to the Remote Desktop again, entering your credentials manually.

Additional Troubleshooting Steps

If the above methods don’t resolve the issue, try these additional steps:

  • Run a full system virus scan using Windows Security or a reputable third-party antivirus.
  • Temporarily disable Windows Firewall to check if it’s blocking the connection.
  • Perform a clean boot to identify potential software conflicts.
  • Check for and install any available BIOS updates for your system.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the CredentialUIBroker.exe Remote Desktop error and regain access to your remote systems. Remember to keep your Windows installation and drivers up-to-date to prevent similar issues in the future.