RDPSign.exe Returns Error 0x80070490 "The RDP File Could Not Be Signed"

Issue

When attempting to sign an RDP file using RDPSign.exe, the following error is returned:

0x80070490 - The RDP file could not be signed

This issue has been verified on Windows 10 versions 1809 and 1903.



Cause 1

The RDP file has already been signed.



Resolution for Cause 1

Open the RDP file in Notepad and inspect the bottom of the file. If the file has previously been signed, it will contain the following entries:

signscope:s:
signature:s:

Remove both lines, including their values, save the file, and then run RDPSign.exe again.



Cause 2

No computer name has been specified in the RDP file.



Resolution for Cause 2

  1. Open the RDP file using Remote Desktop Connection.

  2. Enter the target computer name or FQDN in the Computer field.

  3. Save the RDP file.

  4. Run RDPSign.exe again to sign the file.

After a valid computer name has been specified, the RDP file should sign successfully.


Date Created: Thursday, 7 November 2019, 12:35 PM