Does Microsoft Remote Desktop Work in Russia?

1. Current Status: Official Availability and Practical Access

Microsoft permanently suspended new sales of its products and services in Russia in early 2022, responding to international sanctions tied to the war in Ukraine. The Official Microsoft BlogData Center DynamicsLeave Russia. However, core Windows features—including Remote Desktop Connection, which is built into Windows—continue to function. While access to cloud services like Azure, OneDrive, Power BI, and others has been blocked for corporate entities as of March 20, 202,4, under EU sanctions, essential elements of the Windows OS remain mostly available. Data Center Dynamics Leave Russia

By April 2024, most users in Russia could still download major Windows and Office updates without VPNs—suggesting a partial reinstatement of functionality despite the suspension of services.Reddit

2. Functionality of RDP: What Users and Experts Say

A tech blog notes that Remote Desktop (RDP) generally continues to work in Russia, though users may encounter limitations due to local ISP restrictions, network configurations, or geopolitical complexities. Oudel Inc. Real‑world experiences from expatriates and business travelers on Reddit echo this sentiment:

“RDP protocol itself is not banned in Russia, so if your company allows connections from Russian IPs... it should be OK.”
“RDP itself works fine. But your employer may prohibit connections from Russia.”Reddit

These firsthand reports underline key nuances:

• RDP works—but employer policies matter.

• Network reliability and latency may vary.

• Firewall restrictions and port blocking (e.g. TCP 3389) are common hurdles.

3. Key Limitations and Challenges

• ISP & Government Restrictions
  Under Russia’s “Sovereign Internet” framework, ISPs may throttle traffic, block RDP ports, or enforce DPI rules, particularly during times of heightened censorship. Oudel Inc.

• Latency and Routing Issues
  International connections—from or to Russia—are subject to routing inefficiencies, resulting in delays or disconnections. Oudel Inc.

• Corporate Restrictions
  Companies may block access from Russian IPs or terminate VPN channels if policy deems it risky or non-compliant.Reddit

• Security Risks
  RDP has historically been targeted in cyberattacks—Russia saw a surge in RDP-based attacks in 2020, with 174 million recorded incidents between January and November .Statist.a There are also documented cases of APTs using crafted RDP files for phishing and malware delivery.The Register

4. Workarounds and Best Practices for Reliable RDP Access

If you need to ensure consistent and secure RDP access in or to Russia, here are some recommended strategies:

Strategy	Benefit	Notes
Use a VPN	Masks IP and bypasses port blocking or DPI rules.	Only government‑approved VPNs are legal in Russia; unauthorized use may carry risks. Oudel Inc.
Change RDP Port	Avoids default port blocking by ISPs.	Requires configuration on both client and host sides.
Deploy an RDP Gateway (RD Gateway)	Encapsulates RDP over HTTPS (port 443), typically unblocked.	Stronger reliability and easier to traverse firewalls.
Use Virtual Desktops (e.g., Yandex Cloud or Azure)	Hosts RDP behind stable infrastructure.	Azure services may be limited in Russia; Yandex Cloud offers a local alternative for managing RDP services via cloud-hosted Windows Server.Yandex Cloud+1
Keep a Backup Access Tool	AnyDesk, TeamViewer, and RustDesk offer flexibility.	RustDesk, in particular, is open-source and firewall‑friendly.Wikipedia+1

5. Security Tips When Using RDP in Russia

• Enable Network Level Authentication (NLA)
  Adds a layer of protection before screen access.

• Use Strong Passwords & 2FA
  Always recommended, especially in high-risk environments.

• Limit to Specific IPs
  Particularly critical if exposed directly to the Internet.

• Keep Systems Updated
  Protect against vulnerabilities like BlueKeep—patched back in 2019.WikipediaWikipedia

6. Summary & Final Verdict

In short: Yes, Microsoft Remote Desktop generally works in Russia, especially for personal and business users who remain cautious and resourceful. However:

• Official sales and support have ceased, though core Windows features, including Remote Desktop Connection, survive.

• Cloud-based Microsoft services are restricted under sanctions, meaning Azure‑based RDP or Windows 365 may not be accessible to Russian-based entities. Data Center Dynamics Leave Russia

• Connectivity risks stem from network configuration, ISPs, and corporate policies.

• Security remains a top concern—given historical abuse of RDP by threat actors.

• Practical solutions include VPN, RDP gateways, alternative tools (e.g., RustDesk), and localized cloud services like Yandex Cloud.

Bottom line: RDP works—but navigating Russian connectivity demands preparation, organizational awareness, and robust security.

Looking Ahead

With geopolitical dynamics and digital sovereignty measures continually evolving, the reliability of RDP in Russia may shift. Companies and users should:

• Monitor changes in sanctions, ISPs’ keyboarding, and Microsoft policies.

• Maintain redundant access paths, like self-hosted solutions or non‑Microsoft tools.

• Stay vigilant about security and compliance, especially in cloud or remote setups.