RDP Multipath with redundant TCP is now generally available for Windows 365 and AVD

Having reliable connectivity is key for a smooth and productive experience when using a Cloud PC or virtual desktop. Many factors can impact this, including packet loss, internet service provider issues, restrictive firewalls, proxy settings, VPN routes, or environments with limited UDP access. These factors are among the top reasons for session interruptions in remote desktop setups across businesses.

We’re thrilled to announce the general availability of RDP Multipath with redundant TCP support for Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop. This new feature enhances the resilience of RDP Multipath, ensuring a more stable connectivity experience across a wider range of network settings.

RDP Multipath constantly assesses various connection routes and picks the most dependable path for each session. If the current connection weakens or becomes unavailable, RDP Multipath can automatically switch to a backup route, minimising interruptions and enhancing user experience.

RDP Multipath sets up and maintains multiple connection paths between your device and the Windows 365 Cloud PC or Azure Virtual Desktop host.

When UDP-based RDP Shortpath is available, it remains the go-to transport protocol for the best performance and reliability. RDP Multipath can create several UDP routes using STUN (Simple Traversal Underneath NAT) and TURN (Traversal Using Relays around NAT) protocols. This allows sessions to switch between different UDP paths in case of any issues or failures.

Thanks to the introduction of redundant TCP support, Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop can now set up standby TCP paths alongside the existing UDP connections. This is particularly beneficial for customers who operate in restrictive network environments, allowing them to enjoy enhanced reliability previously available only through UDP.

In the event that the primary connection fails or performs poorly, RDP Multipath seamlessly shifts to the next available connection—be it UDP or TCP—without needing any action from the user. If all connections are lost, such as during a temporary network failure, the session will attempt to reconnect automatically once connectivity is regained.

Many businesses function within environments where UDP connections are limited or non-existent due to firewalls, proxies, or security protocols. In these cases, remote desktop sessions have traditionally relied on a single TCP connection.

Now, with redundant TCP support, Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop can maintain backup TCP routes and switch between them when the active connection is degraded or unavailable. This enhances the resilience of RDP Multipath for users in restrictive network situations.

Key Benefits:

• Better connection reliability: Multiple connection paths are kept active throughout the session. If the primary path falters or fails, RDP Multipath can swiftly switch to a secondary path to reduce interruptions.
• Increased resilience across networks: Businesses can take advantage of RDP Multipath regardless of whether their connections use UDP-based RDP Shortpath or TCP-based Reverse Connect.
• Smooth user experience: Path selection and failover happen automatically and transparently, allowing users to remain connected without needing to do anything.
• No extra setup required: RDP Multipath operates automatically when the necessary prerequisites are met, making it easier for IT teams to deploy.

The diagram above provides an example of how RDP Multipath can establish and manage multiple connection paths between a client device and a Windows 365 Cloud PC or Azure Virtual Desktop.

The specific paths available for connections depend on factors like network topology, firewall and proxy settings, NAT behaviours, and the availability of UDP-based RDP Shortpath.

In the scenario depicted above:

• A UDP-based RDP Shortpath connection acts as the main active path.
• Additional UDP paths can be established using STUN or TURN protocols when the network allows.
• Redundant TCP paths can also serve as backup connections to enhance resilience.
• RDP Multipath evaluates the available paths and monitors their health continuously.
• If the active path fails or degrades, RDP Multipath can switch to another available path to ensure the session continues smoothly.

When UDP connections are available, they remain the preferred method for optimal performance. Redundant TCP paths broaden the reach of Multipath resilience for environments where UDP access is limited due to firewall, proxy, or network constraints.

This feature is enabled by default for all users, providing seamless operation and improved connectivity without any configuration changes needed from IT departments or users. Currently, redundant TCP transport paths are supported only on Windows devices using the Windows App on Windows Client, version 2.0.1069.0 or later.

To explore more about RDP Multipath, please visit:

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