Fixing Small Text in Remote Desktop (RDP) Due to Scaling Mismatch

Issue: When connecting to a VPS via Remote Desktop (RDP), text and UI elements appear too small. This is usually caused by a display scaling mismatch between the customer's local PC and the remote VPS.

Root Cause: 

The local PC (customer's computer) has display scaling set higher than 100% (e.g., 125%, 150%, or 200%).

The VPS (remote session) defaults to 100% scaling, making everything appear tiny.

Solution: Ensure Both Local PC and Remote VPS Use 100% Scaling

Step 1: Check & Adjust Local PC (Customer’s Computer) Settings
Right-click on the desktop → Select Display settings.

Under "Scale & layout":

Set Scaling to 100% (Recommended for RDP).

Ensure Resolution matches the monitor’s native resolution (e.g., 1920×1080).

Apply changes and restart if needed.

Step 2: Configure Remote Desktop (RDP) Client Settings
Open Remote Desktop Connection (mstsc).

Go to the Display tab → Set resolution to Full Screen or match the local monitor.

Under the Advanced tab → Display settings:

Select "Use scaling enforced by remote session" (Windows 10/11).

Or manually set scaling to 100% (to match the local PC).

Save settings and reconnect.

Step 3: Verify Remote VPS Display Settings (If Accessible)
After logging into the VPS, right-click desktop → Display settings.

Confirm Scale is set to 100%.

If changes are made, disconnect and reconnect to apply.

Additional Troubleshooting:

If text remains small, check Group Policy (GPEDIT) on the VPS:

Ensure no enforced scaling policies exist under:
Computer Configuration → Admin Templates → Windows Components → Remote Desktop Services → Remote Session Environment

For persistent issues, update graphics drivers on the local PC.

Prevention Tips:

Always ensure local PC scaling is 100% before RDP sessions.
Use "Use scaling enforced by remote session" in RDP client settings.
Document this fix in customer onboarding to avoid repeat issues.

Impact: Resolves tiny text in RDP by syncing display scaling between local and remote machines.

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